Smog may slow decline in flu and coronavirus infections

Experts pay special attention to patients with: chronic respiratory diseaseas asthma anyone COPD – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease –and heart disease. “Generally speaking, anyone can suffer the harmful effects of haze in the environment, but in the short term our greatest concern is for patients with chronic respiratory conditions who must adhere very closely to their usual treatments.”

suggestion

In order to counteract the adverse effects of suspended dust, Dr. Pérez Mendoza insists on following the recommendations issued by the Ministry of Health of the Government of the Canary Islands through the General Directorate of Public Health, emphasizing in particular sensitive person For these types of episodes -Children, the elderly and people with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease-.

“We have to go out as little as possible, stay hydrated and even use masks, which seems to be starting to be forgotten, and it can also be an ally in this situation. In addition, contrary to the usual advice about household ventilation, it is now better to close as much as possible doors and windows, and avoid exercising and sports activities outdoors.».

They recommend avoiding prolonged exposure to suspended dust and using masks

Health Reminder: Suspended dust can dry out the respiratory tract and, in many cases, may worsen conditions or symptoms associated with respiratory disease (asthma, COPD), leading to respiratory disease. Emergency department visits and hospitalizations increase

In some cases.

It is reported Canary Islands Acute Respiratory Infection Surveillance Figures from the Canarian Health Service (SCS) show that in the third week of January (January 15-21), 19,324 cases of respiratory infections were registered, a decrease compared to the previous week (January 8-14) 4,817 cases, which results in 24,141. This means that the incidence of influenza and COVID-19 has dropped by almost 20%.

Age group

Respiratory tract infections fell last week in all age groups except Under 15 years oldthey continue to accuse back to school The second week of January after the Christmas holidays. In the 0 to 4-year age group, the number of cases increased from 3,207 to 3,282 in seven days; between 5 to 14 years, from 1,128 to 1,244.

The biggest rise in infections last week was among schoolchildren aged 5 to 14

on the contrary, Over 79 years old

They were the country with the largest decrease in cases, with 1,114 fewer cases compared to the 1,528 recorded the previous week.However, this age group still exhibits Higher hospitalization rates for acute respiratory tract infections.