The Ministry of Health has been advised by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) that high concentrations of Saharan Dust are expected to affect the eastern and south-eastern Caribbean over the next two to three days. It is highly likely that, during this period, particulate matter levels will be above the outdoor air quality guidelines that have been established by the World Health Organization.
As such, there may be an increase in symptoms in people with asthma and other respiratory illnesses. Given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is even more important that people wear face masks to contain droplets from sneezing and coughing; and the continued deterioration in air quality may pose additional problems for those most vulnerable.
The Ministry of Health implores people with allergies, sinusitis, asthma and respiratory conditions to be on the alert for flare-ups in their condition and seek medical attention if they experience difficulty breathing. They are also asked to limit outdoor activities and to ensure they use properly fitting masks when they go outside.