DDC recommends six ways to reduce PM2.5
The dire PM2.5 dust situation is expected to affect the health of people in some Bangkok areas up to December 24 before getting better, Department of Disease Control (DDC) director-general Dr Suwanchai Wattanayingcharoenchai said on Thursday.
Despite the lower dust mass during Christmas, he said people should continue to take care of themselves.
He had six tips to reduce the source of dust:
1) Regularly clean your house, sweeping away dust and any spiderwebs. Clean the floor and nooks to keep dust from gathering. Also use a damp cloth to clean furniture, washing machines, fans, air conditioners, filters and screens. The bedroom, where dust mites are likely to hide, need to also be cleaned, including bedsheets, pillowcases, mosquito nets, blankets and doormats at least once a week. Wear gloves while cleaning and cover your nose and mouth so you don’t inhale dust.
2) Use your vehicle less often, opt for public transportation instead.
3) Regularly check the condition of your vehicle and turn off the engine whenever you park.
4) Do not burn leaf waste.
5) Stop burning incense, switch to using short incense sticks or electric incense.
6) Plant a tree with rough/hairy leaves since this type of leaf is highly effective in trapping dust. Jamaican cherry, Afgekia Mahidoliae Burtt et Chermsir, Rangoon Creeper and Shower Orchid are all effective anti-dust plants.
Dr Suwanchai also suggested that before leaving home, you need to continue wearing a protective mask and monitor air quality by viewing the Air Quality Index on the DDC website.
“If you experience unusual symptoms such as frequent coughing, dyspnea, shortness of breath, chest tightness, palpitations, nausea, unusual fatigue or dizziness, seek immediate medical attention,” he warned.
