RESUMO
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The ongoing rise in temperature poses significant public health concerns such as exposure to extreme heat and increased prevalence of heat-related illnesses. Given that pediatric populations are particularly vulnerable to heat-related risks, pediatricians need to be prepared to counsel caregivers and patients on heat protective strategies and treatment recommendations. RECENT FINDINGS: Children are physiologically susceptible to heat-related complications. Heat-related illness is a spectrum of illnesses ranging from mild heat rash to potentially life-threatening heatstroke. Prevention is key to protecting children from heat-related illness and hazards. Recommended prevention strategies include clothing, sun avoidance, hydration, acclimatization, and sunscreen. SUMMARY: It is important that pediatricians provide anticipatory guidance on summer sun safety practices to parents and patients. Should prevention fail, pediatricians must be aware of how to effectively distinguish and treat heat-related illness and harms.