Looking after your health during a dust storm
The following information provides advice on dust storms and health.
What are the potential health effects?
- Depending on the level of exposure, the dust storm may irritate the eyes, nose and throat.
- Children, older people and people suffering from diabetes, heart disease or respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema are more vulnerable to the effects of dust.
What are the suggested precautions you can take to minimise the potential health effects?
- Stay indoors, with windows and doors closed.
- Airconditioned environments can provide protection. If you have an air conditioner at home, turn it on and, if applicable, use them in a recirculate mode.
- Avoid outdoor activity. If you must go outside spend as little time outside as possible.
- Avoid vigorous exercise, especially if you have asthma, diabetes, heart disease or a breathing related condition.
- If you are an asthmatic or have a respiratory condition and you develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or chest pain, follow your prescribed treatment plan. Continue to use your usual medication.
- Seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen.
- Dust storms may reduce visibility. Extra caution should be taken when driving to avoid the risk of collisions.
- If your car is air-conditioned, reduce the amount of dust entering your car by switching the air intake to 'recirculate'.