The Isle of Man is suffering from high levels of pollution.
Like much of the UK, the island has been affected by high levels of particulates in the air because of the prevailing weather conditions.
The island is officially in the ‘very high’ band.
The levels of particulate matter – PM10 and PM2.5 – are above 100 micrograms per cubic metre for PM10 and 70 micrograms per cubic metre for PM2.5.
The Public Health Directorate issued the following advice:
>Adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems and older people, should avoid strenuous physical activity. People with asthma may find that they need to use their inhaler more often.
>Members of the public who are otherwise healthy should reduce physical exertion – particularly when outdoors – if they experience symptoms such as cough or sore throat.
>Anyone with heart or lung disease whose symptoms get worse suddenly should please seek medical help. Similarly, anyone who is asthmatic whose symptoms get worse should increase the frequency of use of their inhaler as advised. If the symptoms are not relieved, they should seek medical help.
>Children with asthma should be able to take part in games in the usual way, although they may need to increase their use of medication before participation. There is no need for them to stay away from school.
Dr Parameswaran Kishore, Director of Public Health, said: ‘The situation regarding the pollution reaching the British Isles from Europe and beyond, due to prevailing weather conditions, is changing all the time. The Government Laboratory will continue to monitor the situation.’