By AHMED KAIGAMA

A Consultant Public Health Physician, Dr Hassan Musa, has advised Nigerians to minimise outdoor physical activities, because of the prevailing hazy weather condition.

He gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Bauchi.

According to him, haze comes with serious risks to public health, saying that the impact on the healthcare system can be grave, should the situation prolong.

He said “haze contains tiny particles with toxic substances that can enter the lungs and be absorbed into the bloodstream. It can increase asthma attack, increase the risk of respiratory infections.

“The condition can also decrease lung function, increase the incidence of shortness of breath, cough and eye irritation.”

Musa noted that those mostly vulnerable to hazy condition are people with pre-existing pulmonary conditions or diseases.

He advised that “If you live in an area that records unhealthy air quality, you should take preventive measures such as avoiding outdoor physical activities.

“Stay indoors as much as you can, and if you have to go outside, limit the time and wear a face mask.

“Close the windows to reduce the haze entering the house or building, and improve internal ventilation.”

Those also likely to suffer from hazy condition are children and senior citizens.

“Children are more susceptible to the adverse effects of haze due to their developing respiratory systems.

“Prolonged exposure to haze can lead to respiratory symptoms.”

The consultant also said that “economically, haze leads to flight cancellations and impedes livelihoods.”

He, therefore, called for the implementation of policies that would regulate industrial production, energy and transport sectors to mitigate the presence of haze and environmental pollutants. (NAN)