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The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) issued a health bulletin on Saturday evening as a fire continued to burn at the Virgin Gorda dumpsite, urging residents and visitors to limit their exposure to smoke.
“Smoke from burning waste can contain fine airborne particles and other potentially harmful substances that may irritate the eyes, nose and throat and can worsen existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions,” the authority said.
The BVIHSA said children, older adults, pregnant women and people with asthma, COPD or heart conditions face greater risks. It advised those in affected areas to stay indoors when smoke is present, close windows and doors, and set air conditioning to recirculate air where possible.
Residents should also avoid outdoor exercise.
“If it is necessary to go outdoors in smoky conditions, wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 respirator, where available,” the bulletin said. It noted that cloth and surgical masks do not provide the same level of protection against fine smoke particles.
The authority urged anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, persistent or severe coughing, chest discomfort, significant dizziness or worsening symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. Its Medical Centre can be reached at 440-1661. For an ambulance emergency, call 119.
A fire at the same dumpsite in July forced its temporary closure and prompted an earlier warning about smoke from burning waste.
“Smoke from burning waste can contain fine airborne particles and other potentially harmful substances that may irritate the eyes, nose and throat and can worsen existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions,” the authority said.
The BVIHSA said children, older adults, pregnant women and people with asthma, COPD or heart conditions face greater risks. It advised those in affected areas to stay indoors when smoke is present, close windows and doors, and set air conditioning to recirculate air where possible.
Residents should also avoid outdoor exercise.
“If it is necessary to go outdoors in smoky conditions, wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 respirator, where available,” the bulletin said. It noted that cloth and surgical masks do not provide the same level of protection against fine smoke particles.
The authority urged anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, persistent or severe coughing, chest discomfort, significant dizziness or worsening symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. Its Medical Centre can be reached at 440-1661. For an ambulance emergency, call 119.
A fire at the same dumpsite in July forced its temporary closure and prompted an earlier warning about smoke from burning waste.
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