Paul Bibby
NSW Health is advising people with breathing problems and those with other health vulnerabilities to stay inside today.
With large areas of the state affected by bushfires, NSW Health says some areas will experience hazardous particles in the air.
It advises that babies and children, elderly people people with breathing disorders such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (including chronic bronchitis and emphysema) and people with a cardiovascular (heart-related) condition take steps to minimise the impact of smoke.
These include staying indoors, taking reliever medication, and seeking medical help tin the event of shortness of breath.
There is also an option to use healthdirect, a free government-owned telehealth service, or the online symptom checker, which is a simple self-guided tool to help people understand the severity of their symptoms and provide clinical advice on what to do next, such as managing symptoms themselves or seeking medical help if required.
The service includes a free helpline (1800 022 222) where people can speak to a registered nurse regarding their symptoms and receive advice on what they should do next.
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