Port of Spain: Unhealthy air quality due to Saharan Dust, raises health concerns

The air quality in Port of Spain remains unhealthy as noted by the Air Quality Index (AQI). The air level stands at 116 points which is considered unhealthy for people of sensitive groups such as, old age persons, children and pregnant women.

According to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS), there is light to moderate concentrations of Saharan dust are present in the atmosphere, and are expected to increase.

It has been noted that the increase in the levels of Saharan Dust in the air, is currently affecting the quality of the air on the island, which cause people to suffer from respiratory issues.

The weather service advises individuals who are under the sensitive age groups to exercise caution and should take all the precautions to tackle the situation and protect their health and well-being.

“The category ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ falls within the range of 101-150 points, and indicates there is, “respiratory symptoms may occur in sensitive groups including older adults, children, and people with respiratory ailments and allergies; as well as aggravation of heart or lung disease and premature mortality in people with heart or lung disease” added AQI reports.

Further, people having heart or lung diseases, children, older adults and people with respiratory ailments and allergies are suggested to reduce prolonged stay outside their houses.

Therefore, they are advised to keep antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays with themselves in case of standard allergy medications for less severe symptoms.

The recorded AQIs at the Environmental Management Authority’s (EMA) other stations located around the country are in the Moderate category, between 51-100 points.

AQIs in this range indicate “Respiratory symptoms are possible in unusually sensitive individuals. There could be possible aggravation of heart or lung disease in people with cardiopulmonary disease and older adults.”

Further, there is moderate air quality forecasted in the areas including Mayaro, and Arima. Point Lisas, San Fernando and Toco. The people across the mentioned areas are expressing their concern regarding the low air quality through their comments on social media (Facebook).

While reacting to the news, a person named Ben Trinidad Benny commented, “So people have all kinda sick issues and it don’t be the same due to Saharan dust.”

Another FB user, by the name of Sher Sher Darroux, wrote, “We didn’t notice it then but now watch the amount of people getting sick after the rise of Saharan dust.”