NHS Concerns Over Volcanic Ash

As a result of the recent volcanic eruption in the Eyjafjallajoekull region of Iceland, thousands of tonnes of potentially poisonous volcanic ash have been dispersed into the atmosphere. There have been massive disruptions to flights across Europe but this will not be the only effect of the Volcano. The current ash cloud is floating at over 30,000 feet thus only posing a problem to aircraft but experts have announced it has begun to fall to ground level in Shetland and is expected to move south.

A statement from the NHS has confirmed that the dust could potentially cause problems for those with respiratory conditions and advises them to carry appropriate medication. Health Protection Scotland have warned: "If people are outside and notice symptoms such as itchy or irritated eyes, runny nose, sore throat or dry cough, or if they notice a dusty haze in the air or can smell sulphur, rotten eggs, or a strong acidic smell, they may wish to limit their activities outdoors or return indoors."

Aberdeen residents have reported a "sulphurous" smell in the area and a thin layer of dust has developed on the ground. Samples of dust from Lerwick, Shetland, are being analysed by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency.

John Swinney, Scottish Finance Secretary updated the Scottish Parliament on the situation in an emergency meeting but the government insisted there was no need to panic or take any action other than precautionary measures for those with respiratory conditions.

However the NHS stressed that the if and when the dust reaches ground level, the particles will likely be low in concentration and only be noticed by those suffering from conditions such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma.

John Hammond, Met Office forecaster claims the dust is "unlikely to cause any long-term health effects. The amount of dust in the air is not exactly known but we do know which regions have been affected and the effects on health will be relatively small.

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