By Nakasia Logan
As Guyana braces for the arrival of a second wave of Saharan Dust, proactive measures are being taken to mitigate the impact of airborne pollutants on public health.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ministry of Health have issued advisories outlining precautionary actions to safeguard individuals and families from potential health effects associated with this phenomenon.
The EPA has indicated that the Saharan Dust is expected to reach Guyana by this evening, with concentrations gradually increasing until Saturday.
While the dust pollution will affect everyone, certain groups are particularly vulnerable, including children, older adults, individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions, and those with cardiovascular illnesses.
Symptoms of exposure to the dust particles include coughing, asthma attacks, scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, skin irritation, and eye irritation.
Additionally, drivers and pedestrians are advised to exercise extra caution on roadways due to reduced visibility caused by the dust.
To address these concerns, the following precautionary measures are recommended:
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Reduce outdoor activities when dust concentrations are at their highest to minimize exposure to airborne pollutants.
- Use Protective Measures: Employ protective measures such as wearing masks or scarves when venturing outdoors, especially in areas with high dust levels, to reduce inhalation of dust particles. Sunglasses can also help protect the eyes from irritation.
- Maintain Indoor Air Quality: Keep windows and doors closed to prevent dust from entering indoor spaces, and consider using air purifiers or filters to improve indoor air quality, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions.
- Remain Informed: Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts to stay updated about changes in atmospheric conditions and potential health risks associated with Saharan dust.
The Sahara dust phenomenon, a recurring atmospheric occurrence, involves fine particles of sand and mineral dust lifted into the atmosphere from the Sahara Desert in North Africa.
These particles can be transported over long distances by strong winds, reaching regions far beyond the Sahara Desert, including Europe, the Caribbean, and South America.