Air Pollution Safety Tips - Steps to Prevent Air Pollution in Delhi

Along with COVID-19, the citizens of Delhi will also face the severe pollution that strikes in the winter months. The effects of COVID-19 can be dangerous for both healthy individuals as well as those with comorbidities, although there is a higher chance of adverse effects on people with comorbidities. Winter pollution in Delhi can worsen the health of those that suffer from breathing and lung problems as well. It is important for everyone but especially important for people suffering from lung problems such as asthma and COPD to ensure they take steps to prevent the effects of air pollution in Delhi. Contracting COVID-19 and facing the effects of air pollution can be extremely harmful to one’s health. Below are air pollution safety tips to cope with winter pollution in Delhi during COVID 19.

Air Pollution Safety Tips – Steps to Prevent Air Pollution in Delhi to cope with winter pollution in Delhi during COVID 19.

1. Wearing a good quality mask is crucial

Wearing a mask while going out in public is essential. People who suffer from severe respiratory or lung diseases may find it difficult to wear face masks. However, it is especially necessary that they protect themselves in the winter. Winter pollution can affect a person’s lungs, making it difficult to breathe. As can severe COVID-19. For sufferers of COPD and asthma, severe COVID-19 can cause them to be hospitalized and put on a ventilator. If they are affected by pollution and COVID-19, their condition will be even worse.

It is best to wear two-layer cotton masks, then silk masks, and then scarves or bandanas. Masks with built-in valves or vents are not advised as they allow infectious particles to be expelled into the surrounding air.

2. Use air purifiers at home

It is advisable to purchase an air purifier to protect yourself against air pollution. Indoor air pollution can seriously hamper your health. Air purifiers with HEPA filters can filter out coronavirus particles and droplets as well.

3. Avoid leaving the house

Leaving the house is already at a minimum due to the pandemic, although open spaces like gardens are still safe to visit. However, during Delhi’s winter months, you should not visit during early mornings and late evenings, when the pollution is the worst. Pollution affects your immune system, which in turn makes you more susceptible to COVID-19.

4. Get flu vaccinations

At this time of the year, it is best to get vaccinated against influenza and pneumonia. As we do not have the COVID-19 vaccines yet, at least these vaccines will protect you from the flu and pneumonia. Influenza and pneumonia could be made worse by COVID-19, and lead to a serious case of COVID-19.

5. Follow a healthy diet

To protect your health from air pollution it is important to eat a healthy and balanced diet. As far as possible, have home-cooked food. This is especially important during the pandemic, where infection could be transferred through food delivery. You should also avoid skipping meals and keep your hydration levels high. Have foods full of vitamin C such as oranges, peppers, and potatoes. Having vitamin C, D, and zinc supplements will help keep up your immunity.

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