The UK Health Security Agency first published guidance on the public health impact of drought on 28 July 2022. The guidance applies to England and sets out the health effects associated with drought and the measures people can take during extended periods of low rainfall1.
The agency states that "the health consequences are related to dehydration, increase of transmission of infectious diseases and poorer mental health"1. It notes that during extended periods of low rainfall households may be asked to reduce unnecessary water use, for example by not washing cars, watering gardens or filling pools with a hosepipe, and that in more severe conditions use may be limited to essential needs such as drinking, cooking and hygiene1. The guidance also warns that drought conditions can increase the amount of dust in the environment, which can potentially affect people with pre-existing respiratory conditions1.
The guidance identifies groups at greater risk from heat, which often accompanies drought: older people, babies and young children, people with a serious chronic condition, people with serious mental health problems or on certain medications, people who are physically active outdoors, and homeless people1. It advises people to look out for neighbours, family or friends who may be isolated and unable to care for themselves1.
On water supply, the guidance says that "if there is an interruption in the water supply, an alternative supply of water will be provided by your water company", and that people should continue to use tap water for drinking unless advised not to do so1. It states that "vulnerable consumers should contact their water company to register on their Priority Services Register (PSR) so they could get extra help and support, for example, the delivery of bottled water"1. On infant formula, it says bottled water is not recommended unless tap water is not available, as it is not usually sterile and may contain too much sodium or sulphate; where bottled water must be used, it should be boiled for one minute and cooled, and the label checked for less than 200mg per litre of sodium and no more than 250mg per litre of sulphate1.
The page carries a published date of 28 July 2022 and a last updated date of 13 November 2024. The update history records that easy-read, sign-language and translated versions of the guidance were added on 13 March 2024, and that information about heat health guidance was updated on 13 November 20241.
Why it matters for households
The guidance sets out what households in England can expect and what the agency advises during drought. It advises people to follow any restrictions on water use, such as hosepipe bans, to sign up with their local water company for notifications, and to report changes in the colour, taste or pressure of tap water to their water company1. It advises those who may need extra help, for example because they are older or have an existing health problem or disability, to ask to be put on their water company's Priority Services Register1. It advises people not to reduce their water intake in an attempt to conserve water, and to carry water when travelling in hot weather1. It also advises people with pre-existing respiratory conditions to be aware of air quality updates and to carry an inhaler if they use one, and says that if wildfire smoke is affecting air quality in an area, windows and doors should be kept closed1. For mental health support it points to family and friends, NHS Every Mind Matters, NHS 111 and GPs1.
What happens next
No further steps are set out in the guidance. The page records updates made on 13 March 2024 and 13 November 20241. Households can follow developments through the heatwaves and drought hub, the Adverse Weather and Health Plan explainer and the page on water company drought plans, with wider context in the UK preparedness hub.
