Air Pollution Woes: Pune Sees Surge In Respiratory Cases As Winter Sets InÂ
Air Pollution Woes: Pune Sees Surge In Respiratory Cases As Winter Sets In
The city’s deteriorating air quality has led to a significant rise in cases of air pollution-related illnesses, with health experts warning of a further increase as temperatures drop. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Pune city on Sunday was recorded at 227, falling in the poor category, while on Monday, it was 200, categorizing it as moderate. However, certain areas like Pune University, Alandi, Bhosari, and Nidgi recorded an AQI of over 250, indicating poor air quality.
Local hospitals have reported a substantial influx of patients suffering from respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and sinusitis. An ENT consultant shared that the OPD has seen a significant rise in cases of air pollution-related illnesses, with patients complaining of symptoms such as sinusitis, ear pain, choked nose, breathing difficulty, and upper respiratory infections.
“The cold weather and deteriorating air quality are the primary reasons behind the surge in cases. With the onset of winter, we expect the cases to increase further,” he added.
Doctors warn that vulnerable groups, including children under five, the elderly, and expecting mothers, are at high risk of experiencing severe effects such as lower respiratory tract inflammation and infection, exacerbation of asthma, and chronic illnesses like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Patients visiting the OPD daily are majorly with existing patients suffering from air pollution-related illnesses. “Patients with COPD and asthma are complaining of aggravated symptoms, including difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chronic cough,” he said.
Health experts advise vulnerable individuals to take precautions such as using face masks, air purifiers, avoiding heavy exercise, and quitting smoking.
Air pollution is a significant public health concern, with both short- and long-term exposure to air pollutants causing health problems in children and adults. “There is a two-fold surge in patients suffering from pollution-related illnesses, and we urge citizens to take necessary precautions to minimize their exposure to polluted air,” said another doctor from the city.
