On January 31, the Ministry of Health released a Public Health Advisory that noted the polluted air quality on the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara, and some parts of Georgetown.
This is attributed to the presence of Saharan Dust, a type of particulate matter that comes from the Sahara Desert in Northern Africa, in the air.
The dust, which is harmful to your health, is made up of particles that can be blown through high-speed winds and transported thousands of miles through the air.
The particulate matter can affect everyone, particularly those that are already vulnerable to experiencing health problems.
These can be children and babies, older adults, people with asthma and other respiratory (lung) conditions and people with cardiovascular (heart) illnesses.
According to the Ministry of Health, breathing in the dust can immediately cause coughing, asthma attacks, scratchy throat, irritated sinuses and skin and eye irritation.
Therefore, the Ministry is advising persons to take precautionary measures to reduce exposure to the polluted air.
It is important for persons to: limit the amount of time spent outdoors; wear a N95 or KN95 face mask when outdoors, ensuring it is worn correctly; perform easy tasks like walking as opposed to running.
“If you experience difficulty breathing or other symptoms that are quickly progressing, visit your nearest health facility for medical assistance,” the Advisory stated.