Kosovo’s Ministry of Health has issued guidelines and recommendations to protect workers and vulnerable population groups from high temperatures forecasted across the country during the period from July 3 to July 10.

The recommendations are based on guidance from the National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo (NIPHK).

Kosovo is currently experiencing temperatures of up to 36°C this week. Meanwhile, parts of Europe such as Spain and Italy are recording temperatures exceeding 40°C in what is considered the most intense heatwave of the summer.

According to the announcement, high temperatures negatively impact human health — particularly among the most vulnerable groups in society, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, and workers exposed to outdoor environments or high-temperature workplaces.

The Ministry recommends that public and private institutions adjust working hours for employees, offering flexible schedules, earlier start times in the morning, or remote work options where possible.

Pregnant women and individuals with chronic conditions should be excused from work during peak heat hours or allowed to work from home.

It also calls for ensuring proper ventilation in indoor workspaces, the establishment of cooling points in outdoor areas, and guaranteed access to cold drinking water for workers.

The Ministry urges all institutions to comply with these measures in order to protect the health of workers and at-risk groups during the ongoing heatwave.