The heat and the lightning storm have, unfortunately, sparked another round of fires in the greater Bay Area. We have all noticed a change in air quality. East Bay Pediatrics would like to remind our patients and families about some health considerations with both the fires and COVID-19 pandemic:
- Limit outdoor play. Children are at higher risk of lung problems with particles in the air. Avoid exertion outdoors when the air quality is poor.
- Keep windows and doors shut when possible. This may be difficult with the heat in our area right now. If you don't have air conditioning, make sure to take other measures to keep cool such as drinking plenty of fluids and using fans.
- Wear your mask. We now have two very good reasons to wear a mask. Masks prevent you from breathing as much particulates in the air. They also prevent you from spreading virus particles. Remember that N-95 masks are more helpful to prevent breathing in particles but the vents in some of them allow virus to spread to others.
- If you have a respiratory problem such as asthma or wheezing, use your controller medication daily (examples are Qvar, Flovent, Advair, Asmanex). If you start to experience cough or shortness of breath or if you have to be active, use your rescue inhaler up to every 4 hours (examples are Albuterol or Xopenex). Call us if shortness of breath continues.
- If you have allergies, start over the counter medications to help with symptoms. Wash your face when you come in from the outdoors.
