Local NewsNews CARPHA warns of harmful effects of Saharan dust by Sandy Deane 12/02/2024 written by Sandy Deane 12/02/2024 1 min read A+A- Reset Share FacebookTwitterLinkedinWhatsappEmail 1.1K SOURCE- CMC – The Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is urging people to protect themselves against the adverse health effects of a Saharan dust plume covering many parts of the Caribbean. In a statement, CARPHA noted that the Barbados-based Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH), in a Dust Bulletin, said “it is highly likely that particulate matter levels will be above the 24-hour outdoor air quality guidelines” as established by the World Health Organization (WHO). “Saharan dust worsens air quality and increases the levels of particulate matter in the air,” warned CARPHA executive director, Dr Joy St John. She said that this could be hazardous, especially to small children, older adults, and people with underlying lung conditions and chronic cardiopulmonary diseases. St John said that dust can also worsen the health symptoms of those who have asthma, allergies, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). CARPHA said that due to the poor air quality, it is encouraging people to protect themselves from Saharan dust including staying indoors as much as possible, and when outdoors, wear a dust mask. You Might Be Interested In Crystal Beckles-Holder, 2nd runner up in regional competition GUYANA: Body of child found after gold mine collapses Barbadians asked to help with return tickets for Haitians In addition, CARPHA is also recommending that people utilise a HEPA filter indoors to purify air in individual rooms and that those who use medications for pulmonary conditions should carry them at all times and use them as prescribed It said that at the first sign of difficulty while breathing, seek professional medical advice immediately and for less severe symptoms, standard allergy medications such as antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays may alleviate symptoms. Sandy Deane You may also like Updated: Wanted man Zion Jackson in custody 18/02/2025 Update: Person of interest identified and charged 18/02/2025 Man remanded on firearm and ammunition charges 18/02/2025