Adaptation Policies and Measures in Health & Wellness under the 2021 Updated NDC | ||
Climate change is increasingly recognized as a major public health threat in Mauritius, with rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting disease patterns posing significant risks to human health and well-being. The impacts of climate change on health include increased heat-related illnesses, a rise in vector-borne diseases (such as dengue and chikungunya), food and water insecurity, air pollution-related respiratory diseases, and mental health challenges linked to environmental stress and disaster displacement. In response to these growing threats, the updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) prioritizes adaptation policies and measures aimed at building a climate-resilient health system. Key strategies include integrating climate change adaptation into national health policies, strengthening disease surveillance and early warning systems, and improving emergency preparedness and response mechanisms. Public health infrastructure will also be reinforced to enhance resilience against climate-induced health challenges, while awareness campaigns will be launched to educate communities on climate-related health risks and preventive measures. Additionally, the adaptation strategy emphasizes Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM) to reduce the spread of climate-sensitive diseases, investment in water and sanitation improvements, and capacity-building for healthcare professionals to address emerging health risks. Special attention will be given to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, who are disproportionately affected by climate-related health hazards. Through these targeted interventions, Mauritius aims to enhance public health resilience, protect its population from climate-related health impacts, and promote long-term wellness in the face of a changing climate. |
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