Venezuela healthcare system strained by extreme heat

Extreme heat driven by the El Niño phenomenon is placing significant pressure on Venezuela’s healthcare system. The rising temperatures increase the risk of dehydration, heatstroke, and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, outdoor workers, and communities with limited water access.

Venezuelan hospitals are facing these challenges while already struggling with existing deficiencies in electricity, water, air conditioning, and refrigeration. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that heatwaves can increase hospitalizations and strain facilities that were not designed to withstand high temperatures.

While the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reports approximately 13,000 deaths annually in Latin America and the Caribbean due to heat-related causes, Venezuela lacks public, disaggregated data regarding deaths specifically attributable to high temperatures.