Strategy to prevent health effects of climate change underway in Turkey

Consequences of climate change are apparent globally as well as in Turkey – extreme heat or cold, heavy precipitation or drought, fires and changing prevalence in infectious diseases.

A strategy development workshop organized by the Ministry of Health on 5–6 December 2013 in Ankara focused on how best to adapt to climate change, emergency preparedness, whole-of-government support, practical action in urban development and infectious disease surveillance. WHO/Europe provided technical guidance for the workshop.

Understanding the health risks posed by climate variability and change, particularly to vulnerable populations, was an important topic of discussion during the workshop.  Specific health-related actions to be taken include strengthening disease prevention, early warning, disease surveillance and outbreak response. Participation of the health sector in collaboration with other sectors is essential in this process.