PHE advises public on air pollution

Public Health England (PHE) and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) have warned that widespread moderate and high air pollution levels are currently being measured across many parts of the UK due to still and foggy weather conditions.

According to a statement from the groups, there are isolated pockets of very high pollution mainly across southeast England but also possible for some urban areas of Northern Ireland, central and eastern England.

PHE and Defra outlined that the current air pollution levels are due to the continuing high pressure and associated light winds across the UK.

It advised that during periods of high air pollution adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, should reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, and particularly if they experience symptoms. It said that people with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often; and older people should also reduce physical exertion.

The groups added that anyone experiencing discomfort such as sore eyes, cough or sore throat should consider reducing activity, particularly outdoors.

The statement also assured that increasing winds across the north and west should lead to air pollution returning to low levels.