NIH issues health advisory amid rising AQI levels of Lahore

LAHORE: A health advisory has been issued by the National Institute of Health (NIH) warning of a sharp rise in respiratory and cardiac illnesses as dense smog has spread from this month to February.

It said toxic pollutants, mixed with a cold spell, could have a severe impact on public health, particularly for children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing conditions.

The NIH said that smog can trigger pneumonia and other respiratory complications due to harmful particles mixing with low winter temperatures. Smog is known to continue to harm public health, hurt the economy, and degrade overall quality of life, the advisory said.

The NIH said the citizens may face breathing problems, heart issues and increased exposure to hazardous pollutants during the smog season.

Highly vulnerable cities include Lahore, Multan, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad; it has pointed out Lahore as the most polluted city that needs immediate precautionary measures.

It called for immediate actions by healthcare institutions, local authorities, and environmental experts to minimize smog-related risks.

Children are advised to limit their outdoor activities, and all residents in the affected areas are advised to use protective masks when outdoors.

The NIH emphasized that preventive measures are necessary as the country is about to face months of thick smog and deteriorating air quality.