Relentless heat and drought take a toll on herders' physical and mental health, in Kenya and the US
If being outside in the heat for even a few minutes felt miserable this summer, imagine what it's like for herders who are always out walking with their livestock and rarely get a break.
As the mercury rises and drought grips the land, herders in Kenya and the United States are experiencing a toll on their physical and mental well-being. Spending long hours outdoors tending to livestock, these individuals rarely get a respite from the sweltering heat. In Kenya, herders are particularly vulnerable, with data indicating that extreme heat and drought can lead to heat-related illnesses, anxiety, and depression.
The situation is similar in the U.S., where shepherds often live in portable trailers without air conditioning, exposed to extreme temperatures for extended periods. Despite the harsh conditions, herders continue to walk their animals for nearly 12 hours a day, despite the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion. Limited access to healthcare and isolation further compound the challenges faced by these hardworking individuals.
As temperatures continue to rise, understanding the real-time impacts of heat and drought on herders' health is crucial, particularly for those working in isolated areas with limited access to medical care.
Written by urgent.news from Phys.org's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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