Forecasts point to a decrease in the concentration of particles on the surface in the North and Center regions, but in the southernmost regions of the country, the air quality is poor, with the daily value already exceeding 50 micrograms per cubic meter, which is the security value.
Therefore, the Directorate-General for Health advises anyone with respiratory problems to stay at home and avoid exposure to this dust.
Air pollution by inhalable particles (PM10) arises from a mass of air coming from the deserts of North Africa, which carries suspended dust, and has been crossing mainland Portugal since Friday.
The DGS recommended that the population not make prolonged efforts, limit physical activity outdoors and avoid exposure to risk factors, such as tobacco smoke and contact with irritating products.
The most vulnerable groups of citizens, such as children, the elderly or people with chronic respiratory and vascular problems, in addition to complying with the recommendations for the general population, “should, whenever feasible, remain inside buildings and, preferably, with the windows closed.”
Chronic patients should continue ongoing medical treatments and, if symptoms worsen, call the Saúde 24 line.
C/Lusa