Did you know that dust from the Sahara Desert can travel thousands of miles, reaching Texas skies? While Saharan dust helps suppress hurricane activity and provides essential nutrients to the environment, it can also impact air quality and trigger breathing issues especially in young children. That’s why understanding the effects and knowing when to seek urgent care for kids is important.
What is Saharan Dust?
Saharan dust consists of tiny particles blown from the Sahara Desert across the Atlantic Ocean. When it reaches Texas, it can cause hazy skies and allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, coughing, or sore throats.
What to Expect in Texas
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San Antonio: Air quality may decline starting Friday, June 6, and into the weekend. Families with young children or those with asthma and allergies should take precautions during this time to protect their kids’ health and know when urgent care for kids is necessary.
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Dallas-Fort Worth: Residents can expect hazy skies and vibrant sunsets starting Saturday, June 7, with no major health risks anticipated for most people. The dust is expected to dissipate by early next week.
Who is Most Affected?
Children with:
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Asthma
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Allergies
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Respiratory sensitivities
Infants and toddlers are also more vulnerable because their lungs are still developing.
How to Protect Your Child
1. Check the Air Quality Index (AQI):
Before heading outdoors, especially for playtime or sports, check your local AQI. If the air quality is moderate to unhealthy, consider staying inside to safeguard your child’s health during these Texas Saharan dust events.
2. Keep Indoor Air Clean:
Use air purifiers with HEPA filters, and keep windows and doors closed when the dust is high to reduce the impact on kids’ health.
3. Limit Outdoor Activities:
If dust levels are elevated, keep outdoor activities short and opt for indoor play.
4. Watch for Symptoms:
Be alert for coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or allergy-like symptoms in your child. If symptoms worsen, visit your nearest Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care for kids location.
5. Keep Rescue Inhalers Handy:
If your child has asthma, make sure their inhaler is within reach, and double-check that it’s not expired.
We’re Here When You Need Us
If your child starts feeling unwell, don’t wait. Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care is open 7 days a week with 19 locations across Texas. You can walk in or hold your spot online for added convenience.
