‘Wear face masks to reduce exposure to dust’ — GHS advises public amid hard weather conditions

The Ghana Health Service is advising the public to wear face masks when outside to reduce their exposure to dust blown about by harsh weather conditions across Ghana.

In a statement dated February 25, GHS Director-General Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye expressed concerns about the health impacts of the dry, dusty air resulting from hot temperatures this February.

"February has been characterized by very harsh weather conditions of dryness and dust with a high Air Quality Index," said Dr. Kuma-Aboagye.

"Wear face-masks to reduce exposure to the dust” because prolonged exposure to airborne dust particles can irritate the lungs and make respiratory issues like asthma worse.

Dr. Kuma-Aboagye noted people with chronic lung conditions "may suffer acute attack or may experience worsening of their conditions" due to the weather.

Other recommendations from the GHS include limiting time outdoors, staying hydrated, and continuing medication for those with lung diseases.

The public is urged to heed these precautions as meteorologists predict the hot, dry spell will continue into March and April.

In the statement, Dr. Kuma-Aboagye assured efforts are being made to monitor any disease outbreaks linked to the harsh weather.