Institute of Public Health of Sarajevo Canton issues recommendations to the public due to air pollution

(Patria) - Citizens of Sarajevo Canton are exposed to high concentrations of pollutants every winter, primarily caused by the use of small individual fireplaces, old, poorly maintained cars, and poorly permeable roads.

The effect of pollutants on the human body can be acute (exposure of the body to high concentrations in a short period) and chronic (exposure of the body to lower concentrations over a longer period), and it is reflected in the increase of chronic respiratory diseases (bronchitis, asthma, cancer...).

Symptoms that occur as a result of exposure to pollutants are individual and manifest as headaches, irritation, difficulty breathing, coughing, and impaired lung and heart function due to lack of oxygen in the body.

The Institute of Public Health of Sarajevo Canton has issued health recommendations to the public:

- Reduce time spent and recreational activities outdoors in the urban zone during periods of the day when pollutant concentrations exceed permissible values!

- Particularly limited outdoor movement (parks, playgrounds...) applies to high-risk population groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and chronically ill patients!

- The working-age population (healthy individuals) should adjust their leisure activities to the conditions and minimize outdoor movement!

- If spending time outdoors, it is recommended to use personal protection in the form of protective masks with appropriate filters to mitigate the harmful effects on health. Breathing through the nose reduces mechanical damage to the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs.

- Ventilate rooms during periods of lowest pollutant concentrations!

- Spend time regularly in fresh air on nearby mountains!

- Reduce cigarette smoking and time spent in smoky and unventilated rooms!

- Regularly take prescribed therapy from your doctor!

- Increase fluid intake, and if possible, consume fruits, vegetables, and vitamin supplements!

Measurements at 8 AM today showed that the air in Sarajevo is polluted, with an air quality index of 152. At some measuring stations, the air quality is slightly better, i.e., moderately polluted.