Public health begins distributing masks to the most vulnerable

The province of Quebec has gone through the worst episode in terms of smog in its history, so many citizens have taken out their masks. The Integrated University Health and Social Services Center (CIUSSS) in the East of Montreal Island will begin distributing masks to the most vulnerable.

• Read more: Poor air quality: It’s improving in Montreal, but the smog is still there

• Read more: Montreal is the most polluted city in the world

• Read more: Smoke promotes allergic reactions in healthy people, allergists warn

• Read more: Poor air quality: Seven tips to protect yourself from smoke

Although air quality has relatively recovered, other episodes of smog are expected in the near future.

According to Dr. Riel Barrett, medical director of the Center for Chronic Illness Expertise at the Integrative University Health and Social Services Center in Montreal Island East, the question is beyond doubt.

“I think for all the people who are aware of the environment and the issues, we can expect more episodes like this in the days, months and years to come,” he said. An interview with TVA Nouvelles.

Smoke is expected in Montreal “overnight,” according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Mr. Barrett recalled.

“These people will feel the effects, which can last for hours, which can make their illness worse for days,” he explains.

Mr. According to Barrett, the most important thing, however, for everyone, is to “avoid exposure.”

“The law of common sense still works: you go out, you feel it, you see it … I think, everyone, but especially vulnerable people, should tell themselves: first, avoid exposure “, he says.

During the smog that engulfed the province this week, many citizens protected themselves by using face masks.

“You have to understand first of all, this is the most important thing: normal masks don’t work. It’s important to say that because people feel like they have a shield when they put it on and they can go and expose themselves … No, no! These masks just don’t work, the N95 s can work,” explains Mr. Barrett.

AFP