The heat is on - 17 Jun 2008

Global warming may be a long way from most of our minds in the depths of winter, wherever you are in the country. But the reality of climate change is clear - winter rain in Joburg - long periods of drought in the Cape - and, as for Australia (where so many are rushing to go to) - climate change is such an important issue there that it forced a change of government.

But climate change has other, more subtle, effects. It is changing the pattern of disease distribution. Soon, diseases such as Dengue fever and Rift Valley fever, may no longer be confined to the tropics and sub-tropics. We may see malaria in Pretoria and bilharzia in Cape Town.

We've known about the link between climate and disease for some time. Jacob Henle discovered it 150 years ago. The reality of climate change has also been recognised by all but a stubborn few for a while now as well. But we can all do something, albeit it small things, to help to prevent our planet rushing towards the tipping point that will spell its (and our) end. So next time Eskom issues suggestions for energy reduction - forget the little issues (and irritations!) and look at the global picture.