- Currently it is estimated that only 0.001% of the world population is exposed to levels of PM 2.5 below those recommended by the WHO.
- When the environmental contingency is activated, measures such as the Doble Hoy No Circula or the restriction of outdoor activities begin.
- Exposure to high levels of pollution is a risk factor for the development of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. It also increases the probability of suffering from cancer, as well as altering the cognitive functions of people.
The Valley of Mexico has more than 20 million inhabitants, a figure that is equivalent to 17% of the national population. Similarly, it is also one of the most industrialized areas of the country and for this reason high levels of pollution tend to prevail. Reviews are carried out permanently to determine the quality of the air and when the situation becomes dangerous environmental contingency is activated.
In this case the Megalopolis Environmental Commission (CAMe) is the authority in charge of conducting reviews. When 135 points or more of ozone, PM10 and PM2. 5 begins the environmental pre-contingency as the first preventive measure.
When no changes are observed, we proceed to the next stage, which consists of the environmental contingency. In addition to ozone, attention should also be paid to PM 2.5 particles, which are ultra-fine and are made up of various chemicals emitted by exhaust from automobiles and factories, fires, fuels, and common dust.
Main health risks
Exposure to this type of microscopically sized particles causes serious health consequences. It is also a risk factor for the development of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and increases the probability of suffering from cancer, as well as altering people’s cognitive functions.
Recently, a study of the Monash University in Australiadiscovered that only 0.18% of the earth’s surface and 0.001% of the world’s population are exposed to PM 2.5 levels below those recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). This means that almost no place on earth is safe.
“This research shows that air quality is a global problem. We are increasingly aware of the need to avoid busy roads, turn off running engines and protect our outdoor space from pollutants. But what we least think about is the impact outdoor air has on the indoor environment,” said Ian Brough, Dyson’s Environmental Care Category Head.
Although it is recommended to stay indoors, whether at home, in the office or in the classroom, you can also suffer the effects of pollution because PM 2.5 is so small that it finds its way into homes. In addition to the imperceptible toxins that emanate from the kitchen, parabens from scented candles, dust and benzene, which can cause allergies and other diseases.
How to take care of health during an environmental contingency?
In fact, this On March 26, 2023, Phase 1 of the environmental contingency was activated in the Valley of Mexico. Within the measures, the Double Hoy No Circula was launched, in addition to restricting outdoor activities. With this in mind, we share some tips that you should follow to take care of your health during these days.
- Take care of your skin and eyes: Pollution and a dry environment dehydrate, redden and irritate the skin and cause conjunctivitis in the eyes. It is important to hydrate the skin, use maximum protection sunscreen, even when it is cloudy, as well as wear a cap or hat. Use drops and polarized lenses with UV filters to protect your eyes from radiation and dust.
- Use a face mask: If you will be on the street, travel by public transport, use a bicycle or motorcycle, try to cover your nose and mouth with a face mask, a mask to filter the air or a damp cloth, which prevents the passage of microparticles.
- Use air purifiers at home: As mentioned, our home or office is not free of contamination, so a good option is to purchase an air purifier that captures particles and allergens that can cause illness. After being outside, your body will appreciate being in a place with clean air.
- Change your clothes: If you were on the street all day, as soon as you get home, try to take off your shoes at the entrance and change into clean clothes, in this way you avoid particles that could contaminate your home from entering.
- Drink more water: Pollution and heat dehydrate, so it is important to drink water constantly. In addition, it will help to hydrate our skin as well as the mucosa of our eyes and nose. For this, you can also use seawater sprays to hydrate your respiratory tract.
- Avoid eating on the street: Try to eat fresh food and make sure that it has been washed and disinfected. With the heat, food decomposes faster and, although we cannot see it, the food in street stalls is full of contaminants such as dust, car smoke and animal feces.
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