Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has advised residents to take basic health and safety precautions as dust storms lash the country. Dust storms pose health hazards such as sinus allergies and respiratory infections.
Dr Yousuf al-Maslamani, medical director of Hamad General Hospital, has advised several precautions during dust storms, which include avoiding going outside during high winds or low visibility when the dust levels are particularly harmful.
People are also advised to spend as little time outside as possible and avoid doing outdoor exercise. The official has asked people to keep windows and doors closed.
The official advised everyone to cover the nose and mouth with a mask or damp cloth to reduce inhalation of particles of dust when going out. Similarly, while driving, the car’s windows should be closed.
According to the official, people must resist from rubbing the eyes to prevent eye infection and must wear protective gear such as airtight goggles. During hot weather, people must carry enough water from being dehydrated. People who are prone to bad allergies should start using their antihistamines during this season, even before the symptoms start.
People at high risk of contracting respiratory infection include infants, young children, the elderly, people with a
history of asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or other respiratory conditions, people with
heart disease, pregnant women and people who have to work outdoors. Those with chronic conditions should see their doctors immediately if an infection occurs.
Dr al-Maslamani said those who show symptoms of allergies such as watering of the eyes, cough, wheezing or asthma can go to their primary healthcare centres. “Those who have severe trouble breathing, or start coughing green sputum, might have a lung infection and should go to the emergency department,” he added.
To prevent vehicular accidents due to decreased visibility, motorists are cautioned to drive slowly and pull over when there is low visibility and use hazard lights when needed.
Dust consists of tiny solid particles floating in the air, which can get past the lungs’ natural defences and harm
sensitive lung tissue. Fine particles of dust can irritate the lungs and trigger allergic reactions or asthma attacks, and prolonged exposure to airborne dust can cause chronic breathing and lung problems, as well as heart disease.
