Moses Jn Baptiste issues advisory due to Saharan dust, urges people to stay indoors

Castries, Saint Lucia: The Minister of Health- Moses Jn Baptiste, has issued a public advisory due to the rise of Saharan Dust in the atmosphere. The air quality has reached at an ‘unhealthy’ level. The Ministry urged people to take precautionary measures.

The people of the Federation are asked to wear face masks or dust masks and avoid getting out of their homes amidst the haze of Saharan Dust particles. The authorities suggested to minimize outdoor activities.

Citizens suffering from respiratory illnesses such as asthma, sinuses, or any chronic lung disease should remain in their homes as dust particles in the air will create breathing problems.

“Protecting oneself from the potential health effects of Saharan Dust is paramount. We urged citizens to wear face masks to reduce inhalation of dust particles and to exercise prudence when engaging in outdoor activities”, added Minister Baptiste.

The Saharan Dust phenomenon occurs when the dust particles from the Saharan Desert pass into the Atlantic Ocean. Such a condition will have severe effects on the Eastern Caribbean regions.

These conditions can reduce visibility in the atmosphere, and as a matter of concern, they have a bad effect on people’s health and could create potential health implications associated with inhaling airborne dust particles.

Authorities expressed their commitment and dedication to monitor the situation closely and will provide every facility to combat the rise of this issue. The Minister of Health- Baptiste urged citizens to inform the official channels in case of any emergency.

Moreover, medical facilities are prepared to deal with the effects of such conditions on those who suffer from respiratory illnesses, as the dust plume can trigger severe reactions. People are asked to practice following measures to avoid sickness.

1. One should wear face masks while going outside of their homes.
2. The citizens suffering from respiratory illness should stay at home as much as possible.
3. A person should immediately visit a medical facility when they find the first sign of difficulty breathing.
4. Cover water sources like wells, water storage ponds and containers to avoid contamination.
5. People are advised to keep inhalers, antihistamines, and steroid nasal sprays with them, especially those suffering from sinuses or asthma.

The Ministry of Health of the country kept the advisory in mind and shared the precautions that can be taken to enhance the health of the citizens.