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For immediate release: July 20, 2006 (06-111)
Contacts:
Judy Bardin, Environmental Health
Assessments 360-236-3193
Donn Moyer, Communications Office
360-236-4076
That ‘something’ in the summer breeze just might be ozone
OLYMPIA ¾ The lazy, hazy days of summer can threaten the health of someone with asthma if ozone levels are high, which is more common during the warmer months. The Department of Health reminds people with asthma and parents of children with asthma to limit outdoor activities during hazy, sunny, hot weather when ozone levels are high. Adults with lung and cardiovascular (heart disease and stroke) diseases should also be mindful of ozone.
"Children with asthma are especially vulnerable," said Dr. Maxine Hayes, state health officer and a pediatrician. "We can help them by paying attention to warnings from clean air agencies — and keeping children indoors more when sunny days are hazy and ozone levels are high. And consult a health care provider to develop an asthma management plan to head-off an asthma attack."
Clean air agencies monitor ozone and other air pollutants during the summer. When ozone reaches levels that affect health, these agencies make announcements that are carried by the news media. Air quality information (www.airwatchnorthwest.org/) can also be found online.
In summer, there are longer periods of sunlight when ozone can form. Extra traffic on the roads can contribute to ozone — the main ingredient in smog. When the air is stagnant, levels of other air pollutants such as fine particles may also increase.
People spend more time outdoors in pleasant, sunny weather and are more likely to be exposed to ozone. Even healthy people can be affected. Those who run or play outdoors breathe more air containing ozone. They’re more likely to experience symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath or chest pain when breathing deeply.
Ozone is a form of oxygen gas that, while beneficial in blocking the sun’s ultraviolet rays, can be harmful at ground level. Ozone irritates the lungs and affects how they function. It can worsen asthma symptoms and can trigger asthma attacks. Research suggests ozone can be harmful for people with cardiovascular disease, too.
Some people are naturally more sensitive to ozone, even at levels that are considered moderate. Greater numbers of people will experience health problems when both temperature and ozone levels are high; more people are hospitalized as ozone levels rise.
When ozone levels are high, exposure can be reduced by limiting the time spent outdoors, especially when exercising or doing heavy physical activity. While indoors, using an air conditioner on the re-circulate setting is recommended.
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