African Dust Blankets Greece: Experts Urge Caution and Limit Outdoor Activity

Athens is currently grappling with a dense episode of African dust, a phenomenon that has raised significant concerns regarding air quality and public health. Experts are urging citizens to take precautions, emphasizing the potential respiratory and health impacts of this atmospheric event.

Health authorities, including Matina Pagoni, vice-president of the National Federation of Health Workers (OENGE), have strongly advised limiting non-essential outdoor activities. This includes avoiding walks and visits to playgrounds, particularly for children. The advice centers on remaining indoors with closed windows to minimize exposure to the airborne particles, which can cause severe irritation to the respiratory tract's mucous membranes.

“

Τα σωματίδια που υπάρχουν στην ατμόσφαιρα προκαλούν σοβαρή φθορά στον βλεννογόνο της αναπνευστικής οδού.

Particular attention is being paid to vulnerable populations, such as individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, as well as those with serious heart conditions. However, experts note that even individuals without pre-existing conditions can experience irritation, coughing, and allergic reactions due to the dust particles.

Professor of Pulmonology Nikos Tzanakis further reinforced these recommendations, advising against strenuous physical activity and manual labor outdoors, especially for sensitive individuals, pregnant women, and children. He stressed the importance of using high-protection masks when outdoor exposure is unavoidable. While the phenomenon is expected to last for a few days, the current situation serves as a stark reminder of the environmental factors that can impact daily life and health in Greece.

“

Συστήνει αποφυγή έντονης σωματικής δραστηριότητας και χειρωνακτικών εργασιών σε εξωτερικούς χώρους, ιδίως για άτομα με ευαισθησίες στο αναπνευστικό, εγκύους και παιδιά.