Some people are more sensitive to air pollution than others. Those most sensitive to air pollution include:
- children younger than 14
- people older than 65
- people with heart and lung conditions, including asthma
- pregnant women.
People in these groups are more likely to experience symptoms from air pollution. Symptoms can include:
- itchy or sore eyes
- sneezing and runny nose
- coughing and wheezing
- shortness of breath
- chest tightness.
If you experience any of these symptoms, follow your treatment plan or seek medical advice.
If you have trouble breathing or are experiencing chest pain, call 000.
Current air quality information is available at EPA AirWatch.
Learn more about smoke and your health.
Read more about monitoring and forecasting air pollution
Your health and the environment: learn and take action
Air quality categories and general health advice
Calculating air quality categories
Reviewed 24 February 2021
