By CESAR JOLITO III

Unhealthy air quality levels have been recorded across several parts of the Visayas, including Negros Island, prompting authorities to issue health advisories and urge residents to take precautionary measures.

Latest monitoring data show pollution levels in these areas have reached ranges considered unhealthy, posing potential health risks — especially for vulnerable groups.

Environmental and health officials attribute the decline in air quality to a combination of extreme heat, dust, smoke, and other pollutants that tend to accumulate during prolonged hot and dry weather conditions.

The Department of Health, along with local disaster risk reduction offices, identified children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions as most at risk.

Among the reported health effects linked to poor air quality are coughing, difficulty breathing, eye and throat irritation, headaches and the aggravation of asthma and allergies.

Authorities advised the public to minimize outdoor activities, particularly during peak heat hours, and to wear face masks when going outside to reduce exposure to airborne particles.

Residents are also encouraged to stay hydrated, keep windows and doors closed when air conditions worsen, and avoid activities that contribute to pollution, such as open burning.

Local governments are currently coordinating with health agencies to monitor the situation and provide timely updates, as air quality levels may change depending on weather patterns such as wind direction and temperature shifts.

Residents experiencing severe or persistent symptoms are urged to seek immediate medical attention./CJ, WDJ