Intense smoke in Amazonas: Find out how to protect yourself and avoid respiratory diseases

Necessary care

Wearing a respiratory protection mask is recommended when circulating in smoky environments.

Manaus (AM) – Faced with the severe drought that is spreading in Amazonas with the accumulation of smoke, the Amazonas Health Surveillance Foundation – Dr. Rosemary Costa Pinto (FVS-RCP), linked to the State Department of Health of Amazonas (SES-AM), warns for the necessary care to avoid respiratory diseases during this period of drought in the state.

The CEO of FVS-RCP, Tatyana Amorim, highlights that the guidelines are practical, aimed at the safety and health of the population from the impacts of smoke, avoiding the risk of acute respiratory infections, especially in children and the elderly.

“The Foundation recommends that the population protect themselves, especially on days when the air is most affected by smoke, avoiding being outdoors, in order to prevent respiratory infections. The recommendation is mainly for children, the elderly, pregnant women, postpartum women and chronic patients who are part of the most vulnerable groups”,

highlights the director.

Guidance to avoid exposure is also recommended for those who have the habit of carrying out physical activities in external areas. Furthermore, other recommendations include wearing a respiratory protection mask when circulating in smoky environments; stay hydrated by drinking fluids and protect your skin from damage caused by sunlight by applying sunscreen.

Other guidelines

The head of the FVS-RCP Epidemiological Surveillance Department, Alexsandro Melo, also highlights that, in the case of an allergic reaction in the eyes or nostrils, the advice is to avoid contact with the affected areas. “Do not scratch your eyes and nose, and keep away from fumes. The situation can be alleviated by washing the areas with saline.”says Alexsandro.

On days with more smoke in the air, the population should be alert to symptoms, such as headaches, irritation and burning in the eyes, nose and throat; hoarseness, dry cough, difficulty breathing and tiredness. In case of any worsening of symptoms, the person should seek the nearest health unit to seek appropriate and timely medical care.

*With information from consultancy

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