Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) advises that air quality in the western suburbs of Melbourne may currently be unhealthy for sensitive groups, due to elevated levels of PM2.5 particles.
Sensitive groups include people over 65, children 14 years and younger, pregnant women and those with existing heart or lung conditions. These people should reduce prolonged or heavy physical activity and, where possible, limit the time spent outdoors.
The elevated levels of PM2.5 are likely due to a buildup of general urban sources of pollution not being dispersed because of still atmospheric conditions. These air quality conditions are expected to continue throughout today in Melbourne but should change overnight as a forecast change in the weather arrives.
Anyone with a heart or lung condition should take their medication as prescribed by their doctor.
People with asthma should follow their asthma management plan.
Anyone with concerns about their health should seek medical advice or call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.
PM2.5 particles are smaller than 2.5 micrometres (0.0025 mm) in diameter. Often described as fine particles, they are up to 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair.
For further information on air quality visit EPA’s EPA AirWatch page at www.epa.vic.gov.au/airwatch