You may have heard of the Saharan dust that is blowing across the tropical Atlantic and affecting the Caribbean and other countries. Most of the Saharan dust is formed between November and April in the Sahara Desert, located in the African Continent, and moves out across many West African countries and the Atlantic Ocean.Â
This dust pollutes the atmosphere with tiny dust particles and reduces the air quality. These tiny dust particles would pass deep into our lungs and get into the blood.
Persons with pre-existing conditions like allergies, asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and some heart conditions can experience worsening of their conditions.
Persons not diagnosed with asthma may develop symptoms like shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing.
The Ministry encourages persons with preexisting conditions like allergies, asthma and other respiratory illnesses, and cardiovascular diseases to use their medication as prescribed by their healthcare provider. Moreover, you should seek medical attention if your condition is worsening.
Persons with pre-existing conditions, as mentioned, should avoid strenuous outdoor activities once informed about the passage of the Saharan dust.
– Ministry of Health and Wellness