25 September 2009

Take precautions with more dust predicted this weekend

NSW Health is advising people, especially those with asthma or respiratory conditions, to take precautions over the weekend, as there is a chance further dusty conditions will return across parts of the state.

NSW Health reminds people that children, older adults and people with heart and lung conditions are most susceptible to the effects of particle pollution.

Director of Environmental Health, Wayne Smith, encourages people with asthma, respiratory conditions, lung disease, and heart disease to avoid outdoor activities, keep windows closed and closely monitor their symptoms, when high levels of dust are in the air.

"Asthma sufferers need to follow their Asthma Management Plan and take their relieving medication with them where necessary. If symptoms get worse or persist, asthma sufferers need to seek medical advice.

"Fine particles can also irritate the lungs of healthy adults, and it is advised that everyone should significantly cut back on physical activities if dust levels are raised.

"Particle levels are likely to be higher outdoors than indoors, so people sensitive to fine particles should limit the time they spend outside," advised Dr Smith.

It is believed that the current conditions around the State are due to dust storms and strong winds coming from the inland plains.

The Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) website currently allows people to sign up to a health alert system, where daily air quality forecasts can be emailed or SMS'ed direct to their phone.  For more information about air pollution or to sign up for the SMS alerts visit - http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/AQMS/aqialerts.htm

For more information about air pollution and health, visit the NSW Health air pollution health alerts web page at: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/PublicHealth/environment/air/aqi.asp

For more information on local air quality forecast and hourly health air quality updates, visit the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water Air Quality Index web page at:
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/AQMS/aqialerts.htm

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au