The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) warned this Monday, April 6, of poor air quality until Thursday in mainland Portugal, due to dust from North Africa, advising the elderly and children to take extra care.
In a statement, the DGS said that “a situation of poor air quality on the continent is expected to occur” from this Monday until Thursday, due to a mass of air coming from the deserts of North Africa, which carries suspended dust.
These inhalable particles have effects on human health, especially on the most sensitive population – children and the elderly -, “whose health care must be doubled during the occurrence of these situations”, highlighted the general directorate.
While the phenomenon continues, the DGS 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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