CDC Releases Health Advisory on Wildfire Smoke Exposure

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reminds health-care professionals seeing individuals affected by wildfire smoke to be alert to the possible adverse effects of smoke exposure, particularly among individuals at higher risk of severe outcomes—such as older residents/patients. The acute signs and symptoms of smoke exposure can include headache, eye and mucous membrane irritation, trouble breathing, cough, wheezing, chest pain, palpitations, and fatigue. In addition, wildfire smoke exposure may exacerbate respiratory, metabolic, and cardiovascular chronic conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and congestive heart failure.

Review the health advisory if you are in an impacted area.