The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has issued a warning to the public, advising them to wear face masks to limit exposure to dust. The GMA has also suggested that outdoor activities, especially for children, should be reduced.
The warning comes as a result of the recent increase in the intensity of the harmattan, which has caused very dusty weather conditions across the country. These conditions have been confirmed by both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Meteorological Services.
In a statement released on Friday, the GMA stated that the increased dust and dry weather conditions have seriously affected human health, possibly leading to an increase in respiratory conditions. People with asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions may suffer acute attacks or worsening of their conditions.
Therefore, the GMA advised everyone to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. They also reminded people living with asthma to carry their inhalers and take all prescribed medications.
Furthermore, the GMA urged anyone who experiences signs and symptoms of respiratory conditions, such as coughing, painful swallowing, runny nose, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, to report to the nearest health facility immediately.
