The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) warned this Monday, March 2, about poor air quality on Tuesday and Wednesday, 3 and 4, respectively, in mainland Portugal, due to dust from North Africa, advising the elderly and children to take extra care.
“A situation of poor air quality is expected to occur on the continent, with an increase in concentrations of inhalable particles of natural origin in the air”, said the DGS in a statement.
According to the DGS, the situation is due to an air mass from the deserts of North Africa, which carries suspended dust, which is expected to cross mainland Portugal in the next two days.
These inhalable particles have effects on human health, especially on the most sensitive population, such as children and the elderly, whose “health care must be doubled during the occurrence of these situations”, highlighted the DGS.
While the phenomenon continues, the general directorate advises the general population to avoid prolonged exertion, limiting outdoor physical activity and exposure to risk factors, such as tobacco smoke and contact with irritating products.
Children, the elderly, patients with chronic respiratory problems, such as asthma, and cardiovascular problems, in addition to complying with general recommendations, should, whenever feasible, remain inside buildings, preferably with the windows closed, the DGS also said.
The statement also states that chronically ill people should maintain their medical treatments and, in the event of worsening symptoms, the population should contact Linha Saúde 24 (808242424) or use a health service.
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