How to protect children from polluted air

The development of mankind is associated with urbanization, the creation of industrial factories, and the increase in the number of various types of oil and gas-powered vehicles. Along with this, air pollution is increasing in almost all big cities. Every day, the pollution level seems to be exceeding the previous day's level. Bangladesh is also going through a very difficult time in terms of environmental pollution in recent years. Even on some days, it is registering its name in the list of the most polluted air levels in the world. Although this polluted heavy air is harmful to all living things, children are at the highest risk.

The sky of Dhaka is covered with a layer of fog. The air here is heavy, it is difficult to breathe. It goes without saying how harmful this air is for the delicate lungs of children. Just as the floating particles of polluted air such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, RMP (respirable particulate matter), SPM (suspended particulate matter) are harmful to children, the damage they cause to their lungs makes them easily susceptible to various germs including viruses, bacteria and others.

On the one hand, polluted air increases the rate of respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis, and on the other hand, air pollution also increases the suffering of various long-term diseases including asthma and bronchitis. In addition, the flow of oxygen to the child's brain can also cause dizziness, headaches, and irritability. It can also leave long-term and permanent harmful effects on the brain.

The sad truth is that parents are having to think about how to protect their children from polluted air.

In addition to national and international measures to reduce air pollution, some simple personal steps can protect children:

Children must wear masks when going outside.

You should try to check the pollution forecast in advance and go out at times when the pollution level is low and in areas where it is low. It is better to avoid areas where there is excessive traffic and roads with many factories nearby.

It is not true that the air in your home is as free from pollution as the air outside. Rather, kitchen smoke and smoking can be unsafe for the air in your home and for your baby. To protect your baby from this, you should use the stove in a place with good ventilation so that the smoke can escape easily.

Family members need to refrain from smoking in the house.

The use of candles, mosquito coils, and air fresheners should also be reduced.

There are various types of air purifiers available in the market that can be used if necessary.

It is good to plant trees at home or on the balcony.

Generally, a healthy child has more ability to protect themselves from the harmful effects of polluted air, so it is important to take care of the child's overall well-being and good health.

If the child has any physical symptoms due to polluted air, such as:

• The baby's eyes become dry.

• Headache starts.

• Feeling tired for a long time

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• People with asthma should seek medical advice immediately if their shortness of breath or cough becomes more severe than before.

^{Dr. Farah Dola , Officer on Special Charge, Directorate General of Health Services}