(CNS): Over the last two days, the air quality readings across Grand Cayman during the current Saharan dust event have remained within the Good to Moderate range of the United States Air Quality Index (US AQI). Government officials said there had been no locations recording readings in the unhealthy or higher categories, and the Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS) has lifted the alert as dust concentrations decline, aided by isolated showers.
Health officials have been actively monitoring the situation and issued public advisories in response to elevated airborne dust concentrations observed over the Cayman Islands in recent days.
The Department of Environmental Health conducted a comprehensive, island-wide air quality assessment at public and private schools across all districts of Grand Cayman over the last two days, with measurements taken from early morning through the afternoon.
Using calibrated handheld instruments, DEH staff recorded inhalable particle concentrations, temperature, relative humidity, and AQI values at both indoor and outdoor locations on each school campus. Outdoor measurements were variable across school sites. AQI values ranged from good to moderate, and no outdoor readings exceeded the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline for inhalable coarse particles.
Moderate AQI values indicate that air quality is acceptable, though individuals who are unusually sensitive to air pollution, particularly those with asthma or other respiratory illnesses, may experience some symptoms with prolonged outdoor exposure.
Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Mark Paramlall said the data collected across schools and the community gives a good picture of air quality conditions during this dust event. “We are reassured that readings have remained within the Good to Moderate range, and that indoor environments at our schools showed that our pupils had good air quality,” he said.
While conditions are improving, the health ministry continues to advise individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions to minimise prolonged outdoor exertion and ensure they have access to any prescribed inhalers or medications.
The general public may resume normal outdoor activities; however, those who experience respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath should move indoors and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Persons needing additional guidance or information can contact the Public Health Department on 244-2889 or 244-2621.
