Heat-related deaths--Chicago, Illinois, 1996-2001, and United States, 1979-1999.

Heat waves (i.e., >/=3 consecutive days of air temperatures >/=90 degrees F [>/=32.2 degrees C]) are meteorologic events that contribute significantly to heat-related deaths. Exposure to excessive heat can cause illness, injury, and death. This report describes four cases of heat-related deaths, as reported by the Office of the Medical Examiner, Cook County, Chicago, that occurred during 1996-2001; summarizes total heat-related deaths in Chicago during 1996-2001; and compares the number of heat-related deaths during the 1995 and 1999 Chicago heat waves. This report also summarizes trends in the United States during 1979-1999, describes risk factors associated with heat-related deaths and symptoms, and outlines preventive measures for heat-related illness, injury, and death. Persons at risk for heat-related death should reduce strenuous outdoor activities, drink water or nonalcoholic beverages frequently, and seek air conditioning.