Looks like a PM 2.5 event will be racing west along with the passge of the cold front out of China in to Japan. For those of you in Okinawa limit outdoor activities if you have respiratory issues. This from the Kadena FB page. (Good Update from them)
– All personnel should consider minimizing prolonged or heavy outdoor activity. Persons with diagnosed respiratory sensitivities should remain indoors where possible.
– Those most at risk include children, the elderly and persons with breathing problems.
– High concentrations may reduce visibility, aggravate pre-existing respiratory illness (e.g., COPD, asthma, bronchitis, common colds, emphysema, influenza, and pneumonia) and even cause symptoms in normally healthy persons who engage in strenuous and prolonged physical activities outdoors (e.g., athletes, construction workers, farmers and joggers).
– Symptoms of PM 2.5 exposure may include eyes, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, phlegm, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory illness may experience difficulty with deep breathing, wheezing, and unusual fatigue. These symptoms usually disappear within a few hours after going indoors. If symptoms persist or become severe, seek medical attention immediately.
For more information, contact your health care team. A U.S. Forces Japan Air Quality Awareness Program is being developed and projected to start in 2014. (MLE)
Source: West Pac Weather
