Don’t inhale that Sahara dust

THE EDITOR: Sahara dust presents serious risks for human health.

Large particles damage external organs causing skin and eye irritations, conjunctivitis.

Inhalable particles get trapped in the nose, mouth and upper respiratory tract causing asthma, pneumonia.

Finer particles enter the blood stream affecting all internal organs and causing cardiovascular disorders.

Infectious diseases are transmitted by dust, for instance Meningococcal meningitis, a bacterial infection.

Inhaling dust particles damages nose and throat mucosa. Iron oxides in dust particles enhance the risk of infection.

This is more than “dus’ in yuh face.” So what can we do? Reduce outdoor activity. Wear eye protection. Wear dust masks.

AV RAMPERSAD, Princes Town