How to protect yourself from dust and polluted air — Ministry of Health recommendations
Experts warn that the temperature inversion in Tashkent could last another 10 days. People with chronic respiratory diseases are advised to stay indoors if possible.
**How to Protect Yourself from Dust and Polluted Air — Ministry of Health Recommendations**
The Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan has issued recommendations for residents amid the deterioration of air quality in Tashkent and other major cities of Central Asia in recent days.
According to an analysis by the Hydrometeorological Research Institute, the Air Quality Index (AQI) rose above 100 points in a number of cities across the region. This was caused by an anticyclone formed at the end of October, light winds, lack of precipitation, and a temperature inversion.
As a result, harmful substances emitted by transport, industry, and the energy sector, as well as natural dust, accumulated in the lower layers of the atmosphere. Specialists believe the temperature inversion in Tashkent could last for another 10 days.
Ilmira Razikova, Director of the Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, noted that people should spend as little time outdoors as possible during periods of deteriorating air quality.
"In particular, people with chronic respiratory diseases such as bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, cough accompanied by a scratchy throat, bronchitis, and bronchial hyperreactivity should refrain from going outside," the statement reads.
People with these conditions are recommended to take antihistamines only as prescribed by a doctor.
In dusty air conditions, the ministry recommends:
- reducing outdoor exposure as much as possible;
- keeping windows closed;
- conducting wet cleaning of premises;
- placing containers of water indoors and hanging wet towels;
- using air conditioners and air purification systems;
- drinking more water and taking showers;
- rinsing the mouth and nasal cavity with a saline solution.
If shortness of breath, nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, itching or redness of the eyes and throat, as well as coughing occur when exposed to dust, it is recommended to consult a family doctor.
If necessary, people can call an ambulance at 103. Emergency medical care is available 24/7. According to the ministry, the Republican Scientific Center for Emergency Medical Care, its 13 regional branches, as well as district and city departments, are provided with all the necessary medicines.