CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Bhopal: CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News / Agencies, Bhopal: As the Diwali festival approaches, shopping activity in markets begins to pick up. People step out of their homes in large numbers to buy clothes, sweets, decorative items and household necessities. But this time, rising air pollution may pose a health challenge along with the excitement of shopping. Especially in Delhi-NCR, where air quality has reached the very poor category, people need to take precautions while going outdoors.
According to health experts, fine particles present in polluted air can reach the lungs through breathing. This can worsen problems such as cough, throat irritation, watery eyes, breathing difficulty and asthma. Children, elderly people, pregnant women and those suffering from heart or lung diseases should be more alert.
Keep these points in mind during shopping. Before leaving home, check your city’s Air Quality Index (AQI). If pollution is high, spend less time outside for shopping and, if possible, choose online shopping. Wear a well-fitting N95 or N99 mask while going out so that exposure to fine particles present in the air can be reduced.
Avoid staying for long near crowded roads, heavy traffic and construction sites. For shopping, choose a time when pollution is relatively lower instead of early morning or late night. Using the metro or public transport to reach the market may also be a better option.
After returning home, wash your hands and face, and if there is irritation in the eyes, rinse them with clean water. If there is difficulty in breathing, chest pain or a persistent cough, seek medical advice. By taking precautions during pollution, people can take care of their health along with enjoying the festival.
Hashtags: #Health #Bhopal #Diwali #Shopping #AirPollution #AQI #N95Mask #N99Mask #DelhiNCR #DiwaliShoppingPollutionPrecautions
