The WHO says smoke from wildfires burning across parts of Europe and North America is travelling across borders and continents, creating serious health risks for communities far from fire zones.
WHO said climate change, prolonged heatwaves, drought and changing land-management practices are increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires, making smoke exposure a growing public health concern.
Although many wildfires are caused by human activity, WHO said climate change is creating hotter and drier conditions that allow fires to ignite more easily and spread more rapidly.
Because smoke can travel vast distances, poor air quality can affect communities for days or weeks, even when fires are not nearby.
Wildfire smoke contains a mixture of gases and fine particles released when vegetation, buildings and other materials burn. Fires that reach urban or industrial areas can release additional toxic pollutants.
One of the main concerns is fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
Exposure can cause coughing, eye and throat irritation, headaches, wheezing and shortness of breath. It can also worsen asthma, heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Infants, young children, older people, pregnant women, people with disabilities and those living in poorly insulated homes are among the groups most at risk. Emergency responders and outdoor workers also face higher risks because of prolonged exposure.
WHO also warned that wildfires can have psychological effects, including stress, anxiety and trauma during and after emergencies.
WHO European Centre for Environment, Climate Change and Health expert Dorota Jarosinska urged people to follow official advice when smoke is present. “When wildfires are present in your area, even if some distance away, follow instructions from your local authorities, who will have the most up-to-date, on-the-ground information,” Jarosinska said.
Jarosinska said the smell of smoke is a warning sign. “If you can smell smoke, it’s present in the air you’re breathing, and you should protect yourself by reducing your exposure, especially if you are in an at-risk group,” Jarosinska said.
Jarosinska added that smoke can still affect people even when it cannot be smelled. “Even if you can’t smell smoke, you may experience symptoms, and wildfires can change direction suddenly if winds shift, so stay alert for updates,” Jarosinska said.
WHO advised people to monitor air quality alerts, stay indoors during heavy smoke, keep doors and windows closed unless evacuation is ordered, and use a well-fitting FFP2 or N95 mask if going outside is unavoidable.
WHO said governments must strengthen early warning systems, public health advice, access to medical care and clean-air shelters as fire seasons become longer and more severe.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
