As the climate transitions towards the winter season, many individuals are becoming increasingly concerned about the rising levels of particulate matter (PM) pollution, particularly harmful PM 2.5 dust, which poses a significant risk to children’s health. Khon Kaen University (KKU) encourages parents to prepare for the PM 2.5 season by consulting with relevant experts.

The following advice is provided by Associate Professor Dr. Juraporn Tangpukdee, Head of the Master of Nursing Science Programme in Paediatric Health Nursing at the KKU Faculty of Nursing, to help parents mitigate health risks for children during the current high-dust season affecting many areas of the country.

Associate Professor Dr. Tangpukdee explained that although long-term research definitively linking PM 2.5 exposure to reduced lung tissue quality in children is still ongoing, observations show an increasing rate of lung disease in adults living in areas with high PM 2.5 concentrations. This has become a point of interest for the medical community, shifting society’s focus towards protecting children’s developing lungs.

Furthermore, several respiratory symptoms are increasingly observed in children, including exacerbated asthma, allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal lining), and a reported rise in cases of nosebleeds during the dust-heavy winter months. These are significant observations that warrant continued monitoring.

Recognising the onset of the polluted season, Associate Professor Dr. Tangpukdee has recommended Five Techniques for parents to ensure their children’s safety regarding PM 2.5 exposure in daily life:

1. Cultivate Discipline for Correct Mask Usage: Instil the habit of wearing a face mask correctly from an early age. This ensures children remain safe in crowded areas or environments with high dust levels and prevents them from resisting mask usage when necessary.
2. Regular Hand Washing: Particulate matter does not only enter the body via breathing. Children may touch dust accumulating on toys or other surfaces before touching their nose or mouth. Maintaining clean hands also reduces the risks associated with other communicable diseases.
3. Maintain Indoor Cleanliness: Parents should regularly clean all surfaces, items, and accessories within the home. This reduces dust accumulation and minimises the child’s daily exposure to airborne particles.
4. Consider Using Air Purifiers When Necessary: While not essential for every household, using an air purifier can significantly reduce health risks, especially in areas with consistently high PM 2.5 readings or where ambient air quality is limited.
5. Monitor Daily Air Quality: Check daily air quality through government applications or real-time dust reporting systems. Parents can use this data to avoid taking children into areas with unsafe air quality and to appropriately plan daily activities.

Associate Professor Dr. Tangpukdee underscored that the safety of young children is paramount. Caring for their respiratory health today provides a vital foundation for them to grow strongly and minimises potential health risks in the future.