As the season is changing and temperature is dipping, the air quality of Delhi NCR has started to deteriorate as well. Gone are the days when people used to enjoy winters by being outdoor during afternoon time and enjoying the warmth of the sun. For the past few years the air quality has worsen during this time and health experts advise to stay indoors.
(Image Source: The Washington Post)
Yesterday was Dussehra and I hope everyone had a good time on this occasion. However, on looking out of window in the morning, I am seeing a dusty haze which I believe has increased, as a lot of firecrackers were unleashed last night. The Air Quality Index of Delhi (aqicn.org/city/delhi) shows the air quality as Hazardous, and this was just Dussehra being celebrated.
(Image Source: Skymetweather)
Common Health related issues observed in Kids during high pollution levels:
During winters in Delhi NCR, the air is engulfed by a thick layer of smog primarily attributed to stubble being burnt by farmers in neighbouring regions, construction dust, industrial and vehicle emissions; as the wind speed drops and with hardly any rainfall, these pollutants are not dispersed completely from the air.As kids have a tendency to breathe at a higher rate than adults, they are more prone to contracting breathing related ailments. Further their immune systems not being fully developed makes them more susceptible to such problems.
- Headaches
- Irritation in Eyes
- Blocked or running nose
- Breathing Difficulty
- Skin Allergies
Measures to Protect Kids from Smog and Air Pollution:
- Avoid staying outdoor for long duration with kids. Also, afternoon is the best time to step out and try to avoid early morning and late night hours
- Invest in a good air purifier for your home to keep out dust pollutants. Kids going to school should wear face mask (N95 or N99) and parents should make sure they wear it correctly otherwise it may be uncomfortable for them
- Regularly monitor Air quality Index if you have to stay outside for longer duration and reschedule your plan accordingly
- Include citrus fruits and vegetables in your diet to boost immunity. Consumption of jaggery improves blood circulation and boosts the respiratory system
- Increase the intake of fluids to flush out toxins from your body
- There are various plants that can be kept at home such as Aloe Vera and English Ivy
(Image Source: Indiatoday)
Government is expected to introduce a slew of measures such as odd-even and stopping construction work, but more importantly it is all us who need to come together, spread awareness and save our city from being crowned the most polluted city of the world.
