Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) advises that air quality in Wangaratta, Morwell, Traralgon and Churchill is poor to very poor due to elevated levels of PM2.5 particles.
The air quality in the Wangaratta region is currently in the “Unhealthy for All” category and for Morwell, Traralgon and Churchill, it is currently in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category.
For the Wangaratta region, EPA advises the community to reduce prolonged or heavy physical activity and that people over 65, children 14 years and younger, pregnant women and those with existing heart or lung conditions should avoid prolonged or heavy physical activity altogether.
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.
For the Latrobe Valley region, 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 build-up of general sources of pollution not being dispersed because of still atmospheric conditions, and private burns in the regions.
Conditions are likely to improve into the early evening but may remain at unhealthy levels into Wednesday.
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 AirWatch page: at www.epa.vic.gov.au/airwatch