CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The air is going to get a little dusty next week. It's that time of year again when tissues and allergy medicine are in high demand.
The Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health District says the Saharan Dust plume will make its annual visit to the Coastal Bend in the middle of next week. The Saharan dust plume is dessert-infused air made up of sand and mineral particles that travel from the Saharan Desert through the Atlantic and makes its way to the tropics during the months of June and/or July.
Desert-infused air is considered an environmental trigger affecting individuals with asthma, COPD, bronchitis, or respiratory illnesses. Residents with existing respiratory illnesses are advised to take extra precautions during the time Sahara dust is present. Stay at home as much as you can and when venturing outdoors wear a face covering. Consult with your primary care physician if you develop symptoms such as nasal congestion and sneezing. If symptoms worsen such as shortness of breath, call 911.
The Health District says the symptoms from an allergic reaction and dust inhalation may resemble symptoms of COVID-19. Dust inhalation can lead to sneezing, persistent cough, Rhinitis, asthma attacks, and Pneumoconiosis. The Health District recommends everyone limit exposure to the outside and residents over the age of two wear a mask.
