Air quality conditions cause concerns for vulnerable populations

[KARE 11 News, July 21, 2021] The National Interagency Fire Center, says there are close to 80 large wildfires currently burning across 13 states - in addition to Canada -  prompting air quality concerns.

Dr. Andrew Stiehm, a pulmonary and sleep physician with Allina Health's United Lung and Sleep Clinic, says the smoke can lead to unhealthy conditions for vulnerable groups.

"Some of our patients with Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP), or asthma or cystic fibrosis might be very much bothered by increase in particulate matter," said Dr. Stiehm.

Dr. Stiehm says for those impacted by the smoke. "When it's a short duration, just try to stay away from it and stay indoors for the best of your ability; another thing is masking,” said Dr. Stiehm.

Posted on July 21, 2021 in Allina Health United Lung & Sleep Clinic