Dr. Japhet Olugbogi, a public health physician and epidemiologist, has urged Nigerians to take preventive measures against the adverse effects of the hazy weather currently affecting parts of the country. As the Medical Officer of Health for the Ifelodun Local Council Development Area in Lagos State, he warned that haze can damage health, causing broken lips and exacerbating respiratory conditions such as asthma.
Hazy conditions reduce visibility due to light mist, hot air, or dust. The United States Environmental Protection Agency explains that haze occurs when sunlight encounters tiny pollution particles in the air. These pollutants originate from both natural sources—such as wind‑blown dust and soot from wildfires—and human activities, including motor vehicle emissions, electric utility and industrial fuel burning, and manufacturing processes.
Dr. Olugbogi emphasized that children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic lung or heart diseases are particularly vulnerable to haze and should adopt protective measures, such as wearing face masks. He noted that dust can break lips, trigger respiratory tract infections, and worsen asthma attacks. Motorcyclists are especially at risk for eye irritation, and those with pre‑existing eye infections may experience heightened discomfort.
People who spend time walking or selling goods along roadsides may inhale large amounts of dust, leading to throat irritation, respiratory infections, and other irritations. The physician also highlighted skin problems, stating that haze can cause rashes and make the skin appear unpleasant if moisturizers are not applied after bathing. Additionally, the weather can be challenging for individuals with arthritis, particularly in the cold mornings.
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