Effingham, IL – The Effingham County Health Department (ECHD) advises the public that the area is under an Air Quality Alert, due to smoke from Canadian wildfires. The Air Quality Index in this area has been over 200 for most of the day; an index reading of over 200 is rated as very unhealthy and means that health effects will be immediately felt by sensitive groups and they should avoid outdoor activity.
Sensitive groups include people with asthma, and heart or lung problems, it also includes older adults, children and teens, all of whom should remain indoors. If you have asthma, COPD or other lung diseases, chronic heart disease, diabetes or are pregnant, follow your doctor’s orders for treatment and medications. Make sure you have a management plan to keep your best health. Keep all your medicines and tools, like peak flow meters, ready to go. Monitor your breathing and exposure to the smoke. If problems develop, call your physician immediately.
Healthy individuals are also likely to experience difficulty breathing and throat irritation, consider staying indoors and rescheduling outdoor activities. If outdoors you should, avoid strenuous outdoor activities and keep outdoor activities short.
Visit www.airnow.gov to stay up-to-date and receive more information on air quality.
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