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Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life Climate Health Awareness Guide In collaboration with: - Ministry of Health - National Agency for Health Security 2026 Edition
Climate change is one of the most significant challenges affecting the environment and human health, through rising temperatures, drought, floods, forest fires and the deterioration of air and water quality. According to the World Health Organization, climate health is about protecting human health and strengthening people's ability to cope with the health impacts and risks resulting from climate change, through prevention, preparedness and adaptation, and by strengthening the resilience of individuals, communities and health systems in the face of these risks. This guide aims to raise awareness of these risks and to encourage prevention and adaptation, through coopera- tion between the environment, health and scientific research sectors. Climate change can influence the spread of certain diseases through changes in temperature, rainfall and humidity, and through the deterioration of water and air quality. Among the most notable diseases and health risks: • Cholera: the risk of its spread may increase as a result of floods and the contamination of water sources. • Malaria: its rates of spread may be affected by changes in temperature, rainfall and humidity. • Dengue fever: its geographical distribution may be affected by climatic conditions. • West Nile virus: linked to environmental factors and to the transmission of viruses from animals to humans. • Meningitis: the risk of outbreaks may be affected by factors such as heat, drought and dust. • Ebola: environmental and climatic factors interact in the dynamics of its spread. • Allergies: rising temperatures, changes in pollen seasons and deteriorating air quality may increase allergy symptoms, particularly respiratory allergies. Algeria's efforts to address climate change form part of its international commitments, notably under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. These commit- ments aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen adaptation to climate impacts, protect human health and natural resources, and support sustainable development. These risks highlight the importance of epidemiological surveillance, early warning, prevention, and coordination between the environment, health and higher education sectors, in order to protect citizens' health and strengthen the ability to adapt to climate change. 04 Health and Climate Change Protecting the environment... Safeguarding human health
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life What is meant by climate changes? 05 Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperatures and weather patterns that occur naturally but are increasingly driven and accelerated by human activities, particularly greenhouse gas emissions. Drought Wildfires Changes in rainfall patterns Rising temperatures Environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity Floods Climate change is a global phenomenon that affects all countries and communities. Main manifestations
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 06 Direct Indirect Increased Exposure Diseases or Worsening of Health Conditions Temperature and Rainfall Water, Air and Food Climate Change
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 07 Heatwaves Floods Extreme Rainfall Drought Landfill fires Disruption of Food Production Food insecurity and malnutrition Air Pollution Can cause heat stress, dehydration and exhaustion, particularly among vulnerable groups. Can lead to water scarcity, food insecurity and adverse effects on human health. Can increase the risk of waterborne diseases, injuries and displacement, while affecting water quality and sanitation systems. Can contribute to water contamination, infrastructure damage and increased risks to public health. Can cause respiratory problems and injuries due to smoke exposure and can significantly affect air quality. Can worsen respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and increase exposure to harmful pollutants.
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 08 Mosquito Tick Sandfly Heat + Rainfall + Humidity Changes in Distribution and Activity Diseases that may be affected Malaria Dengue Fever Zika Leishmaniasis Lyme Disease Fever, headache and severe fatigue. Keep the surroundings and home clean. Install insect-proof windows and screens . Get rid of stagnant water. Use insect repellent. Wear appropriate clothing and cover the body. Fever, muscle and joint pain. Fever, skin rash and eye inflammation. Skin sores and disfigurement. Fever, joint pain and neurological problems. How Can We Reduce the Risks?
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 09 SAFE DRINKING WATER Risks Water contamination Caused by waste and industrial discharges. Poor sanitation and inadequate water infrastructure Can increase the risk of water contamination and related health problems. Diseases Including cholera, typhoid fever and hepatitis. Safe water tanksClean water Safe drinking water Handwashing Prevention Safe water Use water from reliable and monitored sources. Clean water tanks Clean and disinfect water storage tanks regularly. Handwashing Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. Protect water sources Protect water sources from pollution and waste
10 Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life SAFE FOOD IN THE CONTEXT OF CLIMATE CHANGE From Farm to Table… Ensuring Food Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility Food Supply Chain ProductionStorageRefrigerationFreezingConsumption Tips for Keeping Your Food Safe Proper Food Storage Store food in clean, cool places, away from direct sunlight. Maintain the Cold Chain Maintain appropriate temperatures during transportation and storage. Wash Fruits and Vegetables Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly to remove dirt and reduce microbial contamination before consumption. Do Not Leave Perishable Foods at Room Temperature Do not leave perishable foods at room temperature for extended periods. Maintain Good Hygiene Keep hands, utensils, equipment and food-contact surfaces clean. Cook Food Thoroughly Cook food properly and make sure it is thoroughly cooked before consumption. Safe Food… Better Health
11 Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 11 EXTREME HEAT: A RISK THAT CAN BE PREVENTED Dehydration HeatstrokeHeat Stress Light ClothingA Cool PlaceShadeWater Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Stay in a cool place and avoid direct exposure to the sun. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight and seek shade whenever possible. Make sure to drink water regula Severe headache that does not go away Persistent vomiting Rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing Loss of consciousness or confusion. Very high temperature (above 40°C)
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 12 Greenhouse gas emissions contribute to air pollution and are associated with a range of health risks, particularly in urban and industrial areas. Reducing these emissions and improving air quality are essential to protecting human health and the environment. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Smoke and Particulates Air Pollution Respiratory and Cardiovascular Problems
13 CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS IMPACTS ON ANIMALS Climate change affects animals through rising temperatures, drought, and changes in rainfall and natural habitats. This may have consequences for their health, the availability of food and water, and the spread of certain diseases. Main Impacts Spread of Vectors and Diseases Changes in Natural Habitats Drought and Water Scarcity Rising Temperatures Climate change may affect the spread of mosquitoes and insects that carry certain animal diseases. It alters the environments that animals depend on for living, feeding and breeding. It leads to a decline in water and food sources and increases pressure on animals. It causes heat stress and may affect animals' health and their ability to survive. Examples of Climate-Related Diseases West Nile Fever BluetongueRift Valley Fever A viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It affects horses and birds, and changes in climatic conditions may help alter the virus's range. A viral disease affecting ruminants. It is transmitted by insect vectors, and its spread patterns may be affected by climatic conditions. A viral disease affecting livestock, particularly sheep, goats, cattle and camels. Its occurrence may be linked to heavy rainfall and floods. CHAIN OF IMPACT Climate Change Changes in Habitats, Food and Water Spread of Vectors and Diseases Impact on Animal Health and the Balance of Ecosystems. Protecting animals begins with protecting their natural habitats.
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 14 CLIMATE CHANGE AND MENTAL HEALTH The effects of climate change are not limited to physical health; they can also affect mental health. Sandstorms, storms, strong winds, drought, heatwaves and extreme weather events may cause anxiety, stress, fear and sleep disturbances, particularly among those most affected. Psychological support, awareness-raising and advance preparedness are therefore important elements in strengthening the ability of individuals and communities to adapt to these changes. StressAnxiety DisplacementLoss of Property Social PressuresHow Can We Support Our Mental Health? Reliable InformationPsychological and Social Support Solidarity and Social Support To reduce fear and rumours on social media. Awareness-raising through specialists and compliance with preventive measures. With family, friends and the community. Together, Let’s Build Better Mental Health for a More Resilient Future
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 15 WHO NEEDS GREATER PROTECTION? Climate change affects all groups in society, but some groups may be more vulnerable and more severely affected. These include: • Persons with special needs. • Residents of areas adjacent to wetlands. • Displaced persons and those affected by climate change and climate phenomena. Protecting these groups requires strengthening prevention, awareness-raising, preparedness and early response to climate and health risks. Children Pregnant Women Persons with Chronic Diseases Residents Living Near Wetlands Persons with Special Needs Older People The impact of climate change varies in degree.
16 Climate-related risks in border areas Field Health Units Providing healthcare, awareness-raising and prevention in border areas. Vaccination On Board the Vehicle Facilitating vaccination and preventive health operations for residents when needed. Vaccination and Health Assistance Helping to prevent the transmission of certain infectious diseases and monitoring the health situation. Through its health units and facilities deployed across border areas, the People's National Army contributes to efforts to prevent health risks, particularly in border and remote areas. These efforts include helping to prevent the transmission of certain infectious diseases, monitoring the health situation, and carrying out vaccination and preventive health operations, together with health awareness-raising and support, particularly in the context of the accelerating effects of climate change and the health challenges that may result from them.
17 Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life Save Water Keep Your Surroundings Clean Reduce Waste Do Not Burn Waste Act ResponsiblyFollow Official Alerts Protect Yourself from Heat Store Food Properly Every drop of water makes a difference. A clean environment… better health. Reuse and recycle It pollutes the air and harms health. For your sake… and for future generations. Always stay informed. Protect yourself from heatstroke. Proper storage reduces waste. Together for a healthy environment and a better future
Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life 18 Community Cleanliness Prevention Recycling Awareness School Tree Planting Water Sensitisation Posters
19 Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life Know…Protect…Contribute Water Risk • Water contamination • Damage to sewage systems • Waterborne diseases • Consume safe water • Keep water tanks clean • Wash your hands regularly • Maintain good general hygiene Protect YourselfRiskProtect Yourself RiskProtect Yourself RiskProtect Yourself RiskProtect YourselfRiskProtect Yourself Heat • Heat stress • Dehydration • Heatstroke • Drink water regularly • Avoid direct exposure to the sun • Wear light clothing • Seek out cool places Fires • Smoke and resulting emissions • Breathing and heart problems • Worsening of chronic diseases • Stay away from smoke • Close windows • Follow the authorities' instructions • Wear a mask when necessary Vectors • Diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever and others • Avoid places where water collects • Use mosquito nets • Wear protective clothing • Use insect repellent loods • Drowning and injuries • Diseases from contaminated water • Displacement and loss of property • Follow official alerts • Avoid at-risk areas • Keep your important documents safe • Comply with safety guidelines Food • Food poisoning • Malnutrition • Food insecurity • Store food properly • Respect the cold chain • Wash fruit and vegetables with water and bicarbonate • Check the quality of your food Together for safer communities in the face of climate change.
20 Pink Flamingo Assekrem, Tamanrasset El Kala National ParkGouraya Chréa Mountains Fennec Fox Taghit Algeria... with a natural scenery
21 Oued Smar Park: a Sustainable Environmental Model Green Spaces Biodiversity Better Environmental Quality and Climate Physical Activity For healthier, more energetic children . Social Interaction A more cohesive and happier community. Health and Stability A healthy body and a peaceful mind. Green spaces… healthier communities… a sustainable future. Green Spaces Biodiversity Environmental and Climate Quality Activity and Movement Social Interaction Health and Well-Being
Climate Health… Prevention and Preparedness