According to an Air Quality Bulletin issued by the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services on Thursday, October 7, 2021, the threat of health problems is elevated, for mainly unusually sensitive people, such as asthmatics. The worst conditions are expected on Saturday.

The Disaster Management Coordination Agency, DMCA, continues to encourage children, the elderly and those living with respiratory and heart disease to have their medications on hand, wear a mask and reduce physical exertion outdoors.

Air Quality Index Based on Particulate Matters 2.5 (PM2.5) and 10 (PM10) Concentration.

Air quality category: Moderate

Timing: Until Sunday

Synopsis: The air quality is at moderate levels as a result of particulate matters 2.5 and 10, associated with a fresh surge in Saharan Dust. The threat of health problems is elevated, for mainly unusually sensitive people, such as asthmatics. The worst conditions are expected on Saturday.

Air quality index: 60 to 90 Alert Level: II

Sensitive groups: People with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly and children are the groups most at risk.

Health implications: Air quality is acceptable; however, for some pollutants there may be a moderate health concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.

Caution: Active children and adults, and people with respiratory disease, such as asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion.

Dale Destin