The health department in Ghaziabad has issued a crucial public health advisory, urging residents to take immediate precautions against the deteriorating air quality. This comes as local hospitals report a steady increase in patients suffering from respiratory and related ailments over the past several months.
Key Advisory and Preventive Measures
Officials are advising the public to actively monitor daily Air Quality Index (AQI) levels using the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) SAMEER mobile application. The advisory explicitly recommends avoiding outdoor physical activities, including exercise, when the AQI is in the 'poor' or 'severe' categories. Furthermore, residents have been asked to limit the ventilation of their homes during the afternoon hours, specifically between noon and 4 PM.
For indoor air quality management, the department suggests wet mopping instead of dry sweeping to prevent dust from becoming airborne. On a personal health front, people are encouraged to stay well-hydrated and include antioxidant-rich foods in their diet. The advisory stresses that anyone experiencing worsening symptoms should seek medical help without delay.
Rising Health Crisis and Vulnerable Groups
Outpatient departments (OPDs) across the city's hospitals have witnessed a concerning uptick in visits linked to air pollution. Common complaints include breathing difficulties, persistent cough, irritation in the eyes, and chest discomfort. These issues are affecting all age groups but pose a significantly higher risk to vulnerable populations.
District Surveillance Officer Dr. RK Gupta emphasized the need for sustained public caution. "Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart disease are more likely to be harmed by deteriorating air quality," he stated. Dr. Gupta advised that preventive measures should be strictly followed once the AQI crosses the 200 mark.
Understanding the Pollution and Its Risks
The advisory notes that air quality in the region typically plummets to poor or severe levels during the winter season. Exposure to this polluted air elevates the risk of developing not just respiratory, but also cardiovascular and neurological diseases. The major pollutants of concern are PM2.5, PM10, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide.
These pollutants originate from multiple sources, including:
- Vehicular emissions
- Industrial activity
- Construction dust
- Burning of garbage and crop residue
- Indoor sources like solid fuels, smoking, and incense sticks
Dr. Gupta clarified that the threat is not limited to those with prior health conditions. "When AQI enters the 'poor' or 'very poor' category, even those without underlying illness may face discomfort. Outdoor workers such as traffic police and construction labourers must take extra precautions," he explained.
He issued a final warning, urging anyone experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, or a burning sensation in the eyes to consult a doctor immediately, as early intervention is key to preventing serious complications.
