Medical experts have issued a health warning over smoke from wildfires – warning that it could make people more prone to catching Covid-19. Blazes
Medical experts have issued a health warning over smoke from wildfires – warning that it could make people more prone to catching Covid-19.
Blazes are raging across Europe and North America, fed by scorching temperatures and dry conditions and causing untold misery.
Now health authorities have issued a warning over the threat presented fine particles in smoke.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states: “These microscopic particles can penetrate deep into your lungs.
“Close to the fires, smoke is a health risk because it contains a mixture of hazardous gases and small particles that can irritate the eyes and respiratory system.
“The effects of smoke exposure and inhalation range from eye and respiratory tract irritation to more serious disorders, including reduced lung function, bronchitis, exacerbated asthma and premature death. Exposure to particulate matter is the main public health threat from short-term exposure to wildfire smoke.”
The Centres for Disease Control (CDC) in the US adds: “Wildfire smoke can irritate your lungs, cause inflammation, affect your immune system, and make you more prone to lung infections, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.”
Current evidence shows that the effects of heatwaves on mortality are greater on days with high levels of fine particulate matter, the WHO states.
Older people, people with cardiorespiratory diseases or chronic illnesses, children, and people who work outdoors are particularly vulnerable to the combined effects of heatwaves and air pollution.
Fonte: The Independent
