Harmattan haze. (alternativeafrica.com)
A public health physician and epidemiologist, Dr. Japhet Olugbogi, has urged Nigerians to adopt preventive measures against the adverse effects of the hazy weather currently affecting parts of the country. In an exclusive interview with HealthWise, Dr. Olugbogi—Medical Officer of Health for the Ifelodun Local Council Development Area of Lagos State—warned that haze can damage health, causing cracked lips and worsening conditions such as asthma. He advised the public to wear face masks to mitigate these effects.
Hazy weather is characterized by reduced visibility due to light mist, hot air, or dust. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), haze forms when sunlight interacts with tiny pollution particles in the air. These particles originate from both natural sources—such as wind‑blown dust and wildfire soot—and human activities, including motor vehicle emissions, electric utility and industrial fuel burning, and manufacturing processes.
Dr. Olugbogi explained that haze impacts multiple body systems, especially the eyes. Children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic lung or heart disease are particularly vulnerable and should take preventive steps. “Some people’s lips can become cracked, and the dust itself can cause respiratory tract infections,” he said. “The dust is also harmful to the eyes of motorcyclists and anyone with existing eye irritations, potentially worsening those conditions.” He added that people who walk or sell goods along roadsides may ingest large amounts of dust, leading to throat irritation and other respiratory problems.
The physician also highlighted skin-related issues caused by haze. “The dust can make skin scaly and trigger irritations or eczema,” he noted. “Without proper moisturisation after bathing, skin may appear unpleasant, and those with arthritis may experience increased morning pain due to the cold, dry conditions.”
To protect themselves, Dr. Olugbogi recommended wearing nose masks to reduce inhalation of dust and germs, which can help prevent asthma attacks and respiratory infections. He also suggested applying adequate body cream and generous lip balm to guard against cracked lips and skin irritation.
The EPA corroborated these concerns, stating that some pollutants that create haze are linked to serious health problems and environmental damage. Exposure to very fine particles has been associated with increased respiratory illness, reduced lung function, and even premature death. Additionally, particles such as nitrates and sulfates contribute to acid rain, which harms aquatic ecosystems and accelerates the erosion of buildings, historical monuments, and vehicle paint.
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