Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) advises that air quality in and around Latrobe Valley today (4 Feb 2019), may 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 due to bushfire smoke from fires in the Gippsland region with smoke from Tasmanian fires contributing as well. These air quality conditions are expected to continue until a change in conditions occurs.
Anyone with a heart or lung condition should follow their treatment and medication plan 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 information about the effects of smoke on your health please go to https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/your-environment/air/smoke
For further information on air quality visit EPA’s website at www.epa.vic.gov.au/airwatch
For information about emergencies please go to www.emergency.vic.gov.au