People warned to stay inside as dust storm engulfs Sydney
People have been warned to take care outdoors as a large dust storm hits the NSW coast.
The air quality has dropped to "very poor" levels in parts of the state due to the storm, with Sydney’s east and the Central Coast both recording the worst air quality as Sydney is engulfed in dust.
NSW Health has urged people with chronic heart and lung conditions including asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and heart disease, as well as the elderly and children, to limit their time outside.
Director of Environmental Health Richard Broome said those people should also refrain from vigorous exercise during the dust storm and to stay in airconditioning, which can help reduce dust particles in the air.
"Dust may aggravate existing heart and lung conditions and cause symptoms like eye irritation and cough," Dr Broome said.
"Symptoms can occur for several days after dust is inhaled, so people with the chronic conditions need to be vigilant with their treatment programs."
Dr Broome said those with asthma or other lung conditions who develop symptoms such as shortness of breath or coughing should following NSW Health's Asthma Action Plan or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Action Plan.
"If symptoms do not settle, seek medical advice. If you are on home oxygen treatment, continue as prescribed and, if breathlessness worsens, contact your doctor," he said.
Dr Broome said that even healthy people might feel the effects of the dust storm.
"It’s wise to reschedule or cut back on prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities when dust levels are high," he said.
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