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Sulfur dioxide levels . So called “Covid“ coming. Warning for Europe and Asia . Alaska volcanic metan gas cracks after induced earthquakes are the source of SO2 and NO2 pollution . How can sulfur dioxide affect your health? Sulfur dioxide irritates the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. High concentrations of SO2 can cause inflammation and irritation of the respiratory system, especially during heavy physical activity. The resulting symptoms can include pain when taking a deep breath, coughing, throat irritation, and breathing difficulties. High concentrations of SO2 can affect lung function, worsen asthma attacks, and worsen existing heart disease in sensitive groups. This gas can also react with other chemicals in the air and change to a small particle that can get into the lungs and cause similar health effects. Who is at risk? People sensitive to sulfur dioxide include: People with lung diseases, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema will generally have more serious health effects at higher SO2 levels. Children are at higher risk from SO2 exposure because their lungs are still developing. They are also more likely to have asthma, which can get worse with SO2 exposure. Older adults may be more affected by SO2 exposure, possibly because they are more likely to have pre-existing lung or cardiovascular disease. Active people of all ages who exercise or work outdoors have higher exposure to sulfur dioxide than people who are less active. Since it is not possible to control volcanic activity, the National Park Service participates in a sulfur dioxide advisory program, which gives out warnings to let people know when unhealthy levels of this pollutant are present. Advisories encourage people to limit their exposure when necessary. How can I avoid unhealthy exposure? You can take simple steps to reduce your exposure to unhealthy air. First, visit the Current Conditions Website to find out about current sulfur dioxide conditions and the health advisory level. When possibly unhealthy sulfur dioxide pollution happens, your chances of being affected increase with high levels of activity and the length of time you are active outdoors. If your planned activity has long or heavy physical exertion and the sulfur dioxide levels are high, you may want to limit or stop your activity.
