wave forest fires Which affects Brazil and is already going through Nine states and the Federal District It also has health consequences. Smoke inhalation can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and poses risks to vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, people with heart problems, and people with weakened immune systems.
Given the scenario, Ministry of Health Medical bodies have been mobilized to provide measures for the population to protect themselves from it. Harmful effects of smoke and soot Its source burnt.
Supported by its health task force, the Brazilian Society of Family and Community Medicine has warned of the main health problems that those living in areas affected by the fires may face: Respiratory infections, asthmabronchitis, eye and throat irritation, conjunctivitiscough, shortness of breath, fatigue, skin sensitivity and Cardiovascular disorders.
“To protect yourself and avoid health complications, it is important to reduce exposure to smoke and outdoor activities, stay hydrated, use masks or scarves, light clothing, rinse the nose with saline, and close doors and windows inside and outside the home so that smoke does not enter,” he recommends in a note.
The entity also calls on public authorities to take action regarding the climate crisis affecting the country with measures including “measuring air quality to control risks, combating criminal fires, and other measures to manage, mitigate and adapt to climate change and all its damages.”
The Ministry of Health has published on its website and social media a guide that includes recommendations for the general population and highlights people with chronic diseases. They should intensify their care and seek medical help if they notice that their health condition is out of control or their symptoms are out of control.
See recommendations for protecting yourself from smoke.
- Increasing water and fluid intake helps keep the respiratory membranes moist and therefore better protected.
- Minimize exposure time as much as possible, and it is advisable to stay indoors, in a well-ventilated place, with air conditioning or air purifiers.
- Doors and windows should be kept closed during times when particle concentrations are high to reduce the penetration of outside contamination.
- Avoid physical activity during times of high concentrations of air pollutants, and between 12 noon and 4 p.m., when ozone concentrations are highest.
- The use of masks, cloth, scarves, or “surgical” headbands can reduce exposure to coarse particles, especially for residents living near the source of emissions (fireplaces), and thus improve upper airway discomfort.
- N95, PFF2 or P100 type respirators are suitable for reducing the inhalation of fine particles by the entire population.
- Children under 5 years of age, adults over 60 years of age, and pregnant women should pay extra attention to the recommendations described above for the general population. In addition, they should be aware of respiratory symptoms or other health problems and seek medical care as soon as possible.
People with heart, respiratory and immune problems, among others, should:
- Seek medical care to update your treatment plan.
- Keep medications and items prescribed by a medical professional available in case of acute crises.
- Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of an attack.
- Assessing the necessity and safety of temporarily leaving an area affected by seasonal fires
Source: Ministry of Health
