Warning: Smoke and dust causing poor air quality

NSWHealth is warning people to be aware of the health risks assmoke haze and dust storms cause poor air quality across parts of the statetoday.

A change in wind direction is likely to bring smoke from the southernNSW and ACT bushfires into eastern parts of Sydney, the Illawarra, and possiblythe Central Coast and Newcastle this morning.
Dr Adi Vyas, NSW Health Medical Advisor said dust storms are alsoaffecting western NSW and some of this dust may affect western Sydney.
“Airquality will be poor today so it’s important for people to take steps tominimise their exposure,” Dr Vyas said.
“Peoplewith chronic respiratory and cardiovascularconditions should avoidoutdoor physical activity and those with asthma should also follow their AsthmaAction Plan and carry their reliever medication with them.
“Minimisingphysical activity, staying indoors and knowing your treatment plan areimportant ways to reduce the risk of dust and smoke-related illness.”
Symptoms canoccur for several days after dust and smoke is inhaled, so people with chronicconditions need to be vigilant with their treatment plan.
Existing heart and lung conditions can be aggravated and cause symptomslike irritated eyes and a cough.
“People with conditions including asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysemaand heart disease should monitor their symptoms throughout the day,” Dr Vyassaid.
“Ongoingheatwave conditions means that we all need to take extra care over the comingdays.”
If symptoms donot settle, seek medical advice and in thecase of an emergency always remember to dial triple zero.
For more information, visit theNSW Health air quality web page at:
/Public Release. View in full here.