The Canary Islands Health Department has issued a warning due to the expected presence of calima - a weather phenomenon characterised by dust and sand from the Sahara - in several islands over the next few days. Residents are advised to take precautions, particularly those who are sensitive to air quality, such as children, the elderly, and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Suspended dust contributes to drying out the respiratory tract and, in many cases, can cause an aggravation of conditions or symptoms related to respiratory diseases, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes an increase in visits to emergency services and hospital admissions in some cases.
Exposure to this contaminant can cause chest and throat discomfort, coughing, palpitations, and fatigue for up to five days after the onset of the calima.
Key recommendations include:
- Avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure.
- Keeping windows and doors closed.
- Using damp cloths to clean surfaces to prevent dust buildup.
- Staying hydrated and in humid environments.
- Refraining from outdoor physical activities.
- Wear a face mask, particularly if you have a respiratory disease.
People experiencing worsening respiratory symptoms are encouraged to call the emergency services on 1-1-2.
