A Community-Based Check-In Strategy for Heat-Related Illness and Climate-Sensitive Infectious Diseases

Abstract

Introduction
Climate change is increasing exposure to extreme heat and reshaping the burden of climate-sensitive infectious diseases such as dengue and malaria, particularly in tropical and resource-limited settings. Prevention has traditionally relied on environmental control and individual behavioural measures, yet these approaches may not adequately protect socially and structurally vulnerable populations. This poster explores whether a community-based check-in can strengthen early recognition, coordinated action, and equitable health protection.

Method
A narrative review was undertaken to identify evidence on community-level approaches that support prevention and timely response to heat-related illness and climate-sensitive infectious diseases. Selected peer-reviewed studies and public health guidance were synthesised into an integrated framework suitable for non-specialist and community settings.

Results
The reviewed literature indicates that protection against heat-related illness is improved by prompt recognition of warning signs, access to cooling, hydration, and electrolyte replacement when fluid loss is substantial. Heat action plans and community-based adaptation interventions suggest that early warning, outreach, and targeted support for vulnerable groups can reduce heat-related harm. Likewise, dengue prevention models show that local participation, environmental risk reduction, and health education can improve both vector-related and disease-related outcomes. Taken together, these findings suggest that shared alerts, cooling spaces, buddy check-ins, and referral pathways can promote earlier help-seeking, stronger preparedness, and fairer community protection.

Conclusion
In a changing climate, health protection requires more than individual caution. This approach may be summarised as the CHECK framework: Check on each other, Hydrate and stay cool, Eliminate environmental risks, Catch symptoms early, and Know when to seek help. In practice, community organisations and university campuses can support this model through shared alerts, cooling spaces, education, peer support, and referral links. Overall, check-in systems offer a practical and equity-oriented way to translate early warning into local action and reduce preventable harm from heat-related illness and climate-sensitive infectious diseases.