Air pollution: Respiratory distress returns, children, pregnant women, and the elderly at risk; Centre issues health advisory

Following the resurgence of respiratory distress, the central government issued health guidelines. The central government categorized children, pregnant women, and the elderly as high-risk due to air pollution and ordered the establishment of chest clinics in every government hospital in polluted areas. Directing states to take immediate action, the Union Health Ministry issued a 33-page guideline to all states in North India.

It alerted the health system, stating that pollution-related respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are increasing. Therefore, hospitals should be prepared. In a letter to Chief Secretaries, Union Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava stated that air quality is continuously deteriorating, posing a serious public health challenge. We must work together to create a healthy and clean environment. The Union Health Ministry has also shared a format for reporting pollution-affected patients to chest clinics and managing their problems. The guidelines require a daily format, which must be sent from the hospital to the district and then to Delhi.

Strictness Order at Construction Sites

The central government has asked states to ensure that children up to grade five are studying online, while also paying attention to construction sites. The center has stated that dust control at these sites requires sprinkling water, covering materials, and providing workers with equipment and masks. Regular health checkups and training of construction workers are also mandatory.

The center's clear statement: Strictness on GRAP is necessary in every district.

In the letter, the Union Secretary has asked states to immediately activate their state and district task forces and increase coordination with the departments of Environment, Transport, Urban Development, Women and Child Development, and Labor. They should also strictly enforce the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), already implemented in Delhi-NCR. The ministry has stated that air pollution not only causes respiratory diseases but also affects the heart, brain, and nervous system.

Dos and Don'ts

Avoid walking, running, walking, and physical exercise outdoors in the morning and late evening. Avoid opening external doors and windows during the morning and late evening.