On September 22, the increased presence of volcanic smog (vog) was observed at the Taal Volcano in Batangas, prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to issue warnings on its potential risks to health. Read on to learn more about what vog is and how to keep yourself and your family safe.
What is volcanic smog?
Volcanic smog, or vog, occurs when volcanic gases such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) interact with atmospheric oxygen, sunlight, moisture, and dust. Vog presents a threat to health as it can cause respiratory distress and irritation to the skin, eyes, nose, and/or throat. Physical effects of exposure to vog include breathing difficulties, headaches, sore throat, watery eyes, and even flu-like symptoms.
What can I do to protect myself and my family from volcanic smog?
If you are presently in an area affected by vog, observe the following precautions:
- Limit outdoor activities. Stay indoors to reduce exposure to vog and keep your doors and windows closed.
- Wear N95 or KN95 face masks. When heading out is necessary, make sure to mask up. N95 or KN95 face masks are designed for the efficient filtration of airborne particles. Aside from the healthcare setting, this is often recommended for use in poor air quality conditions. Regardless of outdoor activity, high-risk groups such as the elderly, pregnant, or those with asthma, lung, or heart disease, are advised to mask up.
- Drink water regularly to help against throat irritation and nasal congestion caused by vog. Over-the-counter nasal sprays may also help in relieving upper respiratory symptoms.
- Keep your emergency kit on hand. Make sure it is stocked with medications for allergies, asthma, and flu.
- Avoid smoking, vaping, or using candles and essential oils as this may further compromise the air quality around you.
Seek immediate medical attention when deemed necessary, particularly for serious symptoms like difficulties in breathing, increased coughing, or chest tightness. Keep safe!
General disclaimer
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
Sources:
- https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-health-hazards-are-posed-vog-volcanic-smog
- https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/personal-protective-equipment-infection-control/n95-respirators-surgical-masks-face-masks-and-barrier-face-coverings
- https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/hawaiian-volcano-observatory/frequently-asked-questions-about-volcanic-smog-vog
- https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/09/22/2298189/volcanic-smog-detected-taal-health-advisory-issued
- https://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/index.php/volcano-advisory-menu/19895-taal-volcano-advisory-15-september-2023-03-15-pm
