Orange heatwave alert: "We are very attentive," general mobilization to protect the most vulnerable on the Côte d'Azur

A period of intense heat for three days and three nights in a row, "likely to constitute a health risk for the entire exposed population."

For the first time this season, the orange alert level has been triggered. A heatwave is expected in the region over the next few days, according to Météo France forecasts. Health authorities are on alert. Their primary objective: to protect the most vulnerable.

While fortunately far from the appalling figures of 2003, nearly 500 people lost their lives last summer in the southern region, three-quarters of them over 75 years old, victims of decompensation from chronic illnesses aggravated by the heat. And 2,000 visits to emergency rooms related to the heatwave were recorded that same summer.

On the eve of this new heatwave - with temperatures expected to reach around 40°C during the day and very hot nights - the ARS (Regional Health Agency) Paca is increasing its alerts and awareness messages about the dangers to which the elderly in particular are exposed.

Olivier Rey, head of the public health department at ARS Paca, provides an update on the situation.

Have you ever noticed an increase in emergency room visits or calls to 15 related to heat?

We are not seeing a significant increase at this stage, but we are paying close attention. Thanks to our monitoring system, we receive almost daily reports from hospitals: emergency room activity, calls for regulation, bed availability, etc. All facilities have been notified and can adjust their staffing levels if necessary.

Does the national heatwave plan provide for specific reinforcements in hospitals or nursing homes?

Each facility has its own plan for adapting to a potential influx of patients. Social and medical facilities, particularly nursing homes, are also now well organized, with well-established procedures. The current alert allows professionals to be mobilized, staffing levels adjusted, and enhanced surveillance implemented.

What about elderly people living at home, who are often isolated? How are they cared for?

This is a real priority. Home care services: independent nurses, home hospitalization, etc., are mobilized. They are instructed to closely monitor hydration status, maintain regular contact, and alert if necessary. Municipalities can also activate their vulnerable people register to organize active monitoring through their social services.

Do all municipalities have these registers?

Yes, it's a regulatory requirement. Each community can then organize itself differently, but the principle is to identify at-risk individuals who are isolated and without relatives or caregivers, to ensure their follow-up during critical periods.

Have city health professionals already received specific instructions?

Absolutely. As soon as the alert was raised to yellow, they were given an initial alert. With the orange alert, we reinforced the messages. All professionals are now mobilized: hospitals, independent healthcare providers, medical regulators, medico-social facilities, etc.

Concerns about the availability of care for this weekend exist. Can hospitals cope?

Yes, but it's essential that the population adopt the right reflexes. The key message: don't rush to the emergency room. Call 15. This allows for screening, prioritization, and avoids overcrowding. The regulator then directs patients to a general practitioner, a medical center, or the hospital if necessary.

Do you think a tragedy like the one in 2003 could happen again today?

We can never rule out a risk. But since 2003, things have changed profoundly. Professionals are trained, communities are involved, and prevention messages are better understood. That said, the number of at-risk populations is increasing—particularly in the Alpes-Maritimes and Var regions, with a high proportion of elderly, isolated people. This requires us to remain extremely vigilant.