SA: Heatwave linked to a number of sudden deaths

AAP General News (Australia)
02-02-2009
SA: Heatwave linked to a number of sudden deaths

ADELAIDE, Feb 2 AAP - South Australia's heatwave has been linked to a number of deaths
in recent days.

After a surge in sudden deaths as SA sweltered through six days of temperatures above
40 degrees, coroner Mark Johns said on Monday heat had been identified as a factor in
a number of cases.

Mr Johns said in most of those cases, autopsies had been ordered.

"It will not be possible to conclude whether heat was a significant factor in the cause
of death until autopsy reports have been provided and further investigations have been
carried out," the coroner said.

"While I can say there have been more sudden deaths reported than is usual in a given
period, we don't yet have enough information to specify a number (related to heat) until
investigations have been completed."

With no relief from the heat in Adelaide until the weekend, health authorities continued
to urge local residents to take care, particularly the elderly.

The government sent out SMS health warnings late last week and the Red Cross continued
to call Seniors Card holders to check on their wellbeing.

Some people were receiving up to three calls each day.

AAP tjd/apm

KEYWORD: HEAT SA DEATHS

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