Delhi AQI becomes ‘Very Poor’ for first time this season; the doctor advises “masks, medicines” and other measures | Today’s news
The national capital on Monday recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 312, considered “very poor” for the first time this season. The minimum temperature at the Safdarjung weather station settled at 16.4 degrees Celsius, 1.1 degrees above normal. In an interview with news agency ANI, Dr Nikhil Modi of Apollo Hospital advised people with chronic diseases to take precautions in advance to avoid complications. He advised taking medication regularly and seeing a doctor immediately if they feel their health condition is deteriorating.
What precautions should you take?
While talking about the risks that air pollution poses to our lungs and other organs, the doctor suggested that people with respiratory problems avoid periods of excessive pollution, especially early mornings and nights, and use masks. It has been repeatedly suggested that N95 masks are a good tool in the fight against air pollution.
Invest in air purifying plants such as aloe vera, ivy and spider plants that can be placed at home or on your desk. These plants not only clean the air but also calm your mind.
Eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, protein and green vegetables is vital as it helps protect your body from the harmful effects of air pollutants.
An increase in patients reporting respiratory problems and chest infections
Dr Modi’s advice came in the wake of a recent surge in patients reporting lung ailments.
“…Since yesterday, we have been seeing a lot of polluted air around us, which is very harmful for our patients. We are already seeing that those patients who already have lung disease are showing up in our OPD and emergency room with increased breathing problems and some of them are even requiring admission. A number of cases are also coming with chest infections…,” Modi said.
Minimum temperatures at other weather stations were recorded at 16.4 degrees Celsius at Palam, 16.8 degrees at Lodhi Road, 17.2 degrees at Ridge and 16.7 degrees at Ajanagar, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
No precipitation was recorded at any of the five weather stations during the 24 hours ending at 8:30 a.m. Monday.
The AQI reading of 312 is the morning reading and not the daily average, which will be available at 4 pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Tier 2 is implemented in Delhi when the Air Quality Index (AQI) enters the “very poor” category between 301 and 400.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) GRAP operational sub-committee decided to trigger phase 2 based on dynamic air quality and meteorological forecasts. It includes strict measures to reduce air pollution.
