Health Dept suggests wearing masks, pollution to intensify this weekend
BANGKOK — Health department director-general Dr. Panpimol Wipulakorn predicted yesterday (12 December) that air pollution in Bangkok and surrounding areas would intensify this weekend.
“Currently the PM 2.5 level is at 101-200 by air quality index (AQI) standard, indicated by the orange color, and will start to affect the health if people are exposed to the air for too long,” she said. “Since there aren’t many strong winds during winter, the air will become stagnant and the dust particles will settle in instead of being blown away in the next few days.”
People in risk group should avoid staying outdoors for too long, added the director.
“Risk groups include small children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with asthma, allergy, conjunctivitis and coronary diseases, as well as those who have to work outdoors for extended hours.”
The director further suggested wearing a mask for protection. “When entering areas with danger-level dust particles, please wear N95 masks and make sure to wear them correctly and change the mask after 1-2 days of use.”
“Most importantly, do not wear any kind of masks when exercising outdoors, since the mask will make you breathe harder and faster which could affect the heart,” she added.
Residents are advised to check themselves as well as people who are close to them for any air pollution-related symptoms.
“If you or anyone are suffering from such symptoms as frequent coughing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, heart palpitations, nausea or dizziness, see a doctor immediately,” Panpimol added.
Source: The Nation
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