Dust entry

Desert dust-storm particulate

Windblown mineral and biological particulate suspended during drought and desert dust storms.

Airborne form

dust

The form describes what is suspended in air at the point of exposure. A material can produce more than one form, such as dust during handling and fume during heating.

Health effects

airway irritationrespiratory illness exacerbationbronchitis and pneumonia risk concernrespiratory infection concern

Evidence

CDC states that drought increases the risk of dust storms and that particulate matter suspended during these events can irritate the bronchial passages and lungs, worsen chronic respiratory illnesses, and increase the risk of respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

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Air quality · 1

During drought, there is an increased risk for wildfires and dust storms. Particulate matter suspended in the air from these events can irritate the bronchial passages and lungs. Chronic respiratory illnesses can become worse, and the risk for respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia can increase.

Controls

follow local air-quality and dust-storm advisories
reduce outdoor exposure during dust events
improve indoor filtration and sheltering
protect eyes and airways
use appropriate respiratory protection
seek medical care for worsening respiratory symptoms