Health Alert-Saharan Dust
The Ministry of Health, Agriculture Sports, and Human Services wishes to advise the general public to safeguard against the effects of the Saharan dust which is presently affecting us as it will likely affect air quality.
Excess exposure to dust can have severe effects on one’s health. For those persons with preexisting lung disease e.g. asthma, respiratory infections and allergies as well as other underlying diseases, the elderly and children should take extra precautions to avoid exposure. The dust also has the potential to increase the risk of waterborne disease and cause skin and eye irritation. Exposure to Saharan dust can also have adverse effects on healthy persons.
The Ministry of Health, therefore, urges members of the general public especially in light of the COVID 19 pandemic, particularly those who are already experiencing respiratory illness or who are prone to respiratory illnesses to take extra precautions. The predicted deterioration in air quality can pose additional complications for those who are already vulnerable.
The general public is advised to stay indoors as much as possible and adhere to the following advice;
- Wear a face mask
- Wear long-sleeved clothing
- Avoid touching eyes, protect eyes with protective gear
- Washing hands regularly
For further information, contact the Environmental Health Department within the Ministry of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services on 3382142 Grand Turk and 3382143 Providenciales.
END
3
