BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Ministry of Health and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have issued a health advisory as the Saharan Air Layer (commonly known as Sahara Dust) is currently affecting the Federation. This phenomenon poses potential health risks, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions.
In a statement, NEMA explained that the Saharan Air Layer is a vast, dry, dust-filled mass of air that originates over the Sahara Desert in northern Africa. Typically occurring between March and September, it travels westward across the Atlantic Ocean, often reaching the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and parts of the southeastern United States.
This dust can lead to hazy skies and poor air quality in the Federation, especially affecting people with pre-existing respiratory issues.
Health officials are advising residents to take the following precautions:
Limit outdoor activities: Stay indoors as much as possible during dust events.
Wear protective masks: Use a face mask when outdoors to minimize inhalation of dust particles.
Practice good respiratory hygiene: Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, avoid touching your face, and wash hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer.
Monitor symptoms: People with asthma or other respiratory illnesses should keep prescribed medications, like inhalers, on hand and monitor for worsening symptoms.
Seek medical attention if necessary: If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seek prompt medical care.
Common symptoms of exposure include:
Itchy or burning eyes
Runny nose and sneezing
Chest tightness and wheezing (especially in asthmatics)
The Ministry and NEMA continue to monitor the situation and urge the public to stay informed through official channels.
