The Greek meteorological service issued a warning for a high concentration of dust particles during the weekend 13/14 May, as weather conditions favour the transport of African dust over a large part of the eastern Mediterranean .
The concentration of PM10 particulates – dust particles 10 micrometers or less in diameter – is expected to exceed the 50μg/m3 daily mean value limit set by the EU.
In the air quality directive (2008/EC/50), the EU has set two limit values for particulate matter (PM10) for the protection of human health: the PM10 daily mean value may not exceed 50 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m3) more than 35 times in a year and the PM10 annual mean value may not exceed 40 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m3)
People with heart or lung diseases, older adults and children are most likely to be affected by particle pollution exposure.
Public health authorities in Crete have therefore advised individuals with respiratory problem, cardiac conditions and elderly people to limit outdoor activity over the weekend.
However, even healthy individuals may experience temporary symptoms if exposed to high levels of particle pollution.
These may include:
- irritation of the eyes, nose and throat
- coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath
- reduced lung function
- irregular heartbeat
- asthma attacks
- heart attacks
- premature death in people with heart or lung disease
The heath authorities also advise the public to restrict the unnecessary use of vehicles as they could contribute to the air pollution.
