Over the past few days, some of us are experiencing the unusual accumulation of dusts on our vehicles or on other outdoor objects. The Saint Lucia Meteorological Services informed the Ministry of Health and Wellness of the passage of the Saharan dust over Saint Lucia and this explains the increasing dust observed in our environment.

Saharan dust could pose some health problems for persons with significant illness. Persons with dust allergies can experience worsening of their symptoms with itching of the eyes, nose and throat. While, persons with respiratory illnesses like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can have increasing frequency and severity of cough, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. These symptoms may be severe enough to increase the number of visits to the healthcare facilities.

Persons un-diagnosed with respiratory illnesses like asthma may now develop symptoms. We should take protective measures like avoiding unnecessary and strenuous outdoor activities over the next few days. Always have a supply of your allergy and asthma medication at hand, and if your symptoms are worsening, do see your doctor or go to the respiratory clinics established across the island. In the context of `COVID-19, the Ministry encourages the public to continue practicing the protocols of cough etiquette, wearing of masks, hand hygiene and, and physical distancing as we try to limit or prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness encourages all to stay safe at this time.