Smoke from bushfires in Mt Canobalas, Belerada Creek and the Wolgan Valley may affect air quality in and around Lithgow, Penrith and the Blue Mountain and people have been advised to heed warnings to stay indoors and avoid outdoor exercise.

Young children, the elderly and people who have heart or lung disease, including asthma, are particularly susceptible to air pollution.

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Director of Public Health at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, Associate Professor Brad Forssman, recommends people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to have an up-to-date action plan and check they have their medications on hand, such as reliever inhalers.

“On days when air pollution is high everyone should, if possible, stay indoors and in an air-conditioned building with the windows and doors closed,” Dr Forssman said.

“Air pollution can trigger a cough, sore eyes, and shortness of breath, which can last for several days after smoke is inhaled.”

Please seek medical attention if you experience shortness of breath or chest pain that doesn’t respond to rest or your usual treatment.

For more information about air pollution and health visit the website.