These deposit fine dust particles into the atmosphere, where they combine with urban emissions from heavy traffic and industrial emissions. (credit: ERIK MARMOR/FLASH90)Sensitive populations, including heart patients, lung patients, asthmatics, the elderly, children, and pregnant women, are advised to avoid staying outdoors and to stop all strenuous physical activity outside the home. The tiny dust particles can penetrate through the respiratory tract into the trachea and bronchi, and sometimes into the lung nodules. Reducing exposure to air pollution, dust particlesTo reduce exposure to the dust particles, it is recommended to close windows in the home, office, and car. Children playing outside, running, or riding bicycles are at increased risk because their breathing rate is higher relative to their body weight.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 15, 2026 12:32 UTC