The current wildfires across Southern California have caused unhealthy air quality across Los Angeles County. Wildfire smoke is a mixture of small particles, gases, and water vapor. The primary health concern is the small particles, which can cause burning eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, headaches, and illness (i.e., bronchitis). People at higher risk, children, the elderly, those with respiratory or heart conditions, and people with compromised immune systems, may experience more severe effects such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, fatigue, and/or chest pain.
The Via Care medical team urges all of our patients in poor air quality conditions to follow the below recommendations:
- Remain indoors and avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure.
- Wear a mask, preferably a N-95 mask, if you must be outdoors
- Avoid intense outdoor physical activity
- Run your air conditioner and/or an air purifier
- Do not use whole-house fans or swamp coolers that bring in outside air if you have other methods to stay cool
- Avoid other sources of pollution such as fireplaces, candles, incense, grilling, and gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment.
If you experience any of the above respiratory symptoms, please contact us. We have same-day availability in-person at our Urgent Care in South Gate and telehealth services for those who cannot visit a clinic.
East Los Angeles – (323) 268-9191
South Gate – (323) 825-8300
Bellflower – (562) 270-4100
Via Care Urgent Care – (323) 800-3082
We are here for you during these difficult times. Stay safe LA.
