01 December 2004

Air pollution health warning - high ozone day

Following the recent hot weather air pollution levels are likely to be high today due to ozone. Ozone pollution is caused by car exhaust and industrial fumes, and gets worse on hot, still days.

NSW Health warns that children with asthma are most susceptible to the effects of ozone pollution.

“Ozone levels are higher outdoors than indoors, so parents should limit the time their children with asthma play outside today,” said Dr Vicky Sheppeard, environmental health policy analyst for NSW Health.

“Asthma sufferers need to follow their Asthma Action Plan and take their relieving medication where necessary. If symptoms get worse, asthma sufferers need to seek medical advice.

Ozone can also irritate the lungs of healthy adults, so its best to avoid any prolonged outdoor exercise tomorrow.

Related links:

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au