High sulfur dioxide emissions from Taal Volcano have produced volcanic smog, or "vog," prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to alert the public to the threats this may pose to human health.
According to Phivolcs, vog is made up of tiny droplets of volcanic gas, such as sulfur dioxide, which can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory system.
The severity of these effects depends on the concentration of the gas and the length of exposure, it added.
People with health conditions such as asthma, lung disease, and heart disease, as well as the elderly, pregnant women, and children, may be especially sensitive to vog.
Read on to learn about the steps that you can take to reduce the health risks posed by vog.
- Limit your exposure. Stay inside, avoid outdoor activities, and close your doors and windows to keep the vog out.
- Protect yourself. Consider wearing an N95 facemask to protect your nose.
- Drink plenty of water to ease any irritation or constriction in the throat.
- If you fall under the description of the above group of people who are particularly sensitive to pollution, take care of yourself and, if necessary, seek medical attention or assistance from the barangay health unit. This is especially important if serious side effects occur.
In addition to potential health risks, Phivolcs noted that vog could result in "acid rain" during times of rainfall and volcanic gas emissions over areas where the plume disperses, harming crops and degrading metal roofs.