Sao Paulo sees record number of fires over weekend; Pollution may worsen health for some
BRASILIA – Drought and the fires occurring across much of the country have caused negative effects on the health of the population. Estimates reach Ministry of Health indicate an increase of up to 60% of visits due to poor air quality. However, the data is a projection based on reports from professionals working at the forefront, since there are no official statistics on the subject yet.
The director of the Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Health Surveillance of the Ministry of Health, Agnes Soares, participated this Monday 26 in a press conference with other members of the federal government to talk about the fires in São Paulo. She stated that there is no real-time monitoring of the number of problems resulting from weather conditions in the emergency units (UPA) and basic health units (UBS). According to her, the official analysis of the data will only be possible later.
“We are talking about an increase of up to 60% in care, especially for children. And many municipalities are asking for support, also to prepare to guarantee emergency care, critical care, especially in cases of childrenwhen there are these more critical episodes of pollution from the air,” said the director.
Since Friday the 23rd, São Paulo has faced a sudden increase in the number of fires. According to data from the National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), on Friday the state registered 1,800 fires, the highest number since 1998, when the data began to be calculated.
Three people have been arrested so far on suspicion of involvement in the fires. The federal government suspects that the the fires were orchestrated by criminals. On the other hand, the state management claims to see no connection between the incidents.
Faced with the adverse weather conditions that are affecting not only São Paulo, but also the Center-West and the Amazon, the Ministry of Health recommends that authorities take into account the climate scenario when evaluating the possibility of canceling classes and suspending activities that require physical effort.
“If there is a possibility of reducing activities, this must be assessed in each situation. As is currently the case with relative humidity associated with a very high level of particles (air pollutants), This harms the children’s performance and (generates) general discomfort. In these cases, in every situation, it would be necessary to evaluate the reduction of activities or the closure of schools”, explains Soares.
The director points out that it is important to avoid prolonged exposure to smoke. It is also essential to stay hydrated. She warns that when smoke causes a reduction or loss of visibility, it is a sign of a greater risk to health from the air.
People with previous illnesses, such as hypertensionDiabetes and asthma, as well as children and the elderly, need to be especially careful, as they are more vulnerable to air pollution. “We recommend avoiding outdoor exposure when critical episodes occur,” Soares says. If exposure is unavoidable, people are advised to wear protective masks.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
