Wildfire smoke could pose health problems, says chief medical officer, but there are preventatives

Smoke from the wildfires in Conception Bay North and Holyrood has created a visible haze over parts of the Avalon Peninsula.

The smell of smoke has been noticed as far east as the Confederation Building in St. John's.

It prompted Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Janice Fitzgerald to advise vulnerable people to stay indoors as the air quality index presents a moderate health risk for residents in St. John's and the surrounding area.

"We want people to stay indoors when they can, especially if you smell the smoke like we can today," Fitzgerald said during a media availability on Tuesday afternoon.

She said people vulnerable to health effects from wildfire smoke include those with asthma, chronic lung disease, seniors, young children and people who are pregnant.

Symptoms of wildfire smoke inhalation can range from mild to severe.

Fitzgerald said that mild symptoms include watery eyes, nasal and throat irritation, and increased phlegm production. Severe symptoms, that may require medical attention, include shortness of breath, dizziness, heart palpitations and intense coughing.

She said avoiding exposure is most important.

"Keep your windows and doors closed. If you have an air exchanger system, make sure you don't have it bringing in air from the outside to reduce that exposure as much as possible," Fitzgerald told reporters.

In cases where people are required to go outside, Fitzgerald is encouraging them to use N95 masks over surgical masks — similar to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"If your work takes you outside, and there are air quality advisories and you're concerned and you're feeling the effects of smoke, certainly wearing a well-fitted mask can be helpful in those situations," she said.

Listen to your body

Wildfire smoke has affected the air quality index of cities and communities across the country.

Fitzgerald said a few days with a higher air quality index shouldn't cause long-term effects, but her primary concern is for those who already have issues that could be exacerbated by short-term exposure.

"There have been situations here where the air quality index has been 10, not necessarily right here in town, but in the province and certainly across the country we've seen poorer air quality," she said.

The most important thing, Fitzgerald said, is listening to your body.

"It does tend to be transient, but we have to be aware, listen to our bodies, and keep ourselves in a clean airspace as much as possible."

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