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They are the tool of choice for removing harmful particles from the air, including everything from air pollution to pet dander. But for as many as 21 million Americans with a condition known as “multiple chemical sensitivity,” particles are just part of the problem in the air. For you or someone you know, even a whiff of perfume or a hint of lemon in the dishwashing soap can start the sneezing and scratching and wondering what’s wrong. Even the best air purifier particle filter (such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus) can’t help unless it is teamed with a separate carbon-based chemical filter (the HealthPro Plusis). Millions of Americans experience contact dermatitis in reaction to cosmetics, and the National Institutes of Health published a study that implicates hair dyes, gels/soaps and moisturizers as the worst offenders, along with perfumes. These products release odors and chemicals into the air, and that’s where an air purifier can help. A typical perfume can contain up to 300 components. Fragrances in the air can also affect pets’ allergies. And the high-performance air purifiers that protect humans also protect pets. The increasing use of scents in pet products may be one reason why feline allergic airway disease has been increasing. Veterinarians advise against heavily scented shampoos or sprays for pets. Remember, it’s hard for our pets to report their symptoms or emotions. But those Americans suffering from multiple chemical sensitivity can report their symptoms, including burning, stinging eyes, wheezing, headaches, runny noses, skin rashes and other complaints. Extremely low levels of common irritants that go unnoticed by others can cause severe symptoms for an MCS sufferer. Those with MCS will find some relief at home with the right air purifier.The best overall strategy is to “rid your home as far as is reasonable possible of all pollutants,” according to www.multiplechemicalsensitivity.org. At work, avoid smoking, perfumes and request a workstation or office a safe distance from photocopiers, fax machines and printers. Air purifiers, of course, cannot protect you when you travel, but at least your living space can be a relatively safe haven with a little effort. Pets and humans alike who have allergies will benefit from a home chemical cleanup. Close inspection of all products such as paints, cleaners and solvents, perfumes and cosmetics and even furniture, carpet and clothing is required. Remember, the MCS patient improves when the triggers are removed. So if you or someone you love suffers from MCS or other chemical sensitivities, the right air purifier teamed with the elimination of fragrances and other chemicals around the house might just give you the help you need.","contentHtml","

Air purifiers play many roles. They are the tool of choice for removing harmful particles from the air, including everything from air pollution to pet dander.

But for as many as 21 million Americans with a condition known as “multiple chemical sensitivity,” particles are just part of the problem in the air. For you or someone you know, even a whiff of perfume or a hint of lemon in the dishwashing soap can start the sneezing and scratching and wondering what’s wrong.

$\"Airborne$

Even the best air purifier particle filter (such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus) can’t help unless it is teamed with a separate carbon-based chemical filter (the HealthPro Plusis).

Millions of Americans experience contact dermatitis in reaction to cosmetics, and the National Institutes of Health published a study that implicates hair dyes, gels/soaps and moisturizers as the worst offenders, along with perfumes. These products release odors and chemicals into the air, and that’s where an air purifier can help. A typical perfume can contain up to 300 components.

Fragrances in the air can also affect pets’ allergies. And the high-performance air purifiers that protect humans also protect pets. The increasing use of scents in pet products may be one reason why feline allergic airway disease has been increasing. Veterinarians advise against heavily scented shampoos or sprays for pets. Remember, it’s hard for our pets to report their symptoms or emotions.

But those Americans suffering from multiple chemical sensitivity can report their symptoms, including burning, stinging eyes, wheezing, headaches, runny noses, skin rashes and other complaints. Extremely low levels of common irritants that go unnoticed by others can cause severe symptoms for an MCS sufferer.

Those with MCS will find some relief at home with the right air purifier.The best overall strategy is to “rid your home as far as is reasonable possible of all pollutants,” according to www.multiplechemicalsensitivity.org. At work, avoid smoking, perfumes and request a workstation or office a safe distance from photocopiers, fax machines and printers.

Air purifiers, of course, cannot protect you when you travel, but at least your living space can be a relatively safe haven with a little effort. Pets and humans alike who have allergies will benefit from a home chemical cleanup. Close inspection of all products such as paints, cleaners and solvents, perfumes and cosmetics and even furniture, carpet and clothing is required. Remember, the MCS patient improves when the triggers are removed. So if you or someone you love suffers from MCS or other chemical sensitivities, the right air purifier teamed with the elimination of fragrances and other chemicals around the house might just give you the help you need.

","fragrance-allergies-require-right-air-purifier","gid://shopify/Article/606880268587","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/fragrance-allergies-require-right-air-purifier","trackingParameters","publishedAt","2016-09-19T18:54:43Z",[1146,1147],"Allergies and Asthma","MCS","Fragrance allergies require the right air purifier","image",{"_10":1151,"_243":1152,"_246":1153,"_248":1154,"_244":1155},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406141075830","Woman holding her nose","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/172_allergies_banner_abf7e8dd-1349-4b50-b73b-6d4e3d6be841.webp?v=1751024874",1600,833,{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1157,"_1115":1158,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1159,"_1136":1160,"_985":1161,"_10":1162,"_1140":1163,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1164,"_577":1165,"_541":1166,"_1149":1167},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"In the wake of Hurricane Irene, many homeowners are turning to air purifiers such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus to remove airborne mold spores while cleaning up continues. Molds are microscopic fungi and become airborne pollutants in both indoor and outdoor air. Mold can trigger asthma attacks and other respiratory problems. Mold spores in the air eventually land and, when they land on a spot with moisture, they grow. A high-efficiency air purifier can remove mold spores from the air, but the only way to stop mold from growing is to remove the source of moisture upon which the mold is feeding. There’s not much you can do when your home is under a few feet of water. As of late Tuesday, thousands of homes remained partially submerged from floodwater as the result of Irene. Meanwhile, more than 2.5 million people couldn’t run their air purifiers even if they wanted to, because electricity remains unavailable. From North Carolina to Vermont, floodwater is beginning to recede only today, setting the stage for the cleanup that comes next. As evacuated homeowners return, mold will be among the top problems they face. “During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems,” warns one website published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The agency says failure to deal with immediate issues such as removing contaminated materials can have long-term health consequences. Removing standing water is a priority and, once power is safely restored and the standing water is gone, a dehumidifier will help in tandem with an air purifier. Until then, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that all electrical equipment and appliances must be completely dry before returning them to service. And yet another indoor air quality hazard occurs when homeowners run gas-powered equipment indoors. The result could be carbon monoxide poisoning. Take heed. As the home or apartment continues to dry out, an air purifier will help keep the air at home clean from mold spores and other airborne triggers that can cause allergic reactions or asthma. Moisture may also have collected in your heating and air conditioning system, even if components were not submerged – for example in supply ducts. If you suspect that is the case, contact a professional to inspect your system. Also, running an air purifier on its highest speed will help deliver adequate amounts of clean air to prevent breathing problems from being added to your post-flooding problems.","

In the wake of Hurricane Irene, many homeowners are turning to air purifiers such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus to remove airborne mold spores while cleaning up continues. Molds are microscopic fungi and become airborne pollutants in both indoor and outdoor air. Mold can trigger asthma attacks and other respiratory problems. Mold spores in the air eventually land and, when they land on a spot with moisture, they grow. A high-efficiency air purifier can remove mold spores from the air, but the only way to stop mold from growing is to remove the source of moisture upon which the mold is feeding.

There’s not much you can do when your home is under a few feet of water. As of late Tuesday, thousands of homes remained partially submerged from floodwater as the result of Irene. Meanwhile, more than 2.5 million people couldn’t run their air purifiers even if they wanted to, because electricity remains unavailable. From North Carolina to Vermont, floodwater is beginning to recede only today, setting the stage for the cleanup that comes next. As evacuated homeowners return, mold will be among the top problems they face.

“During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems,” warns one website published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The agency says failure to deal with immediate issues such as removing contaminated materials can have long-term health consequences. Removing standing water is a priority and, once power is safely restored and the standing water is gone, a dehumidifier will help in tandem with an air purifier. Until then, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that all electrical equipment and appliances must be completely dry before returning them to service. And yet another indoor air quality hazard occurs when homeowners run gas-powered equipment indoors. The result could be carbon monoxide poisoning. Take heed.

As the home or apartment continues to dry out, an air purifier will help keep the air at home clean from mold spores and other airborne triggers that can cause allergic reactions or asthma. Moisture may also have collected in your heating and air conditioning system, even if components were not submerged – for example in supply ducts. If you suspect that is the case, contact a professional to inspect your system. Also, running an air purifier on its highest speed will help deliver adequate amounts of clean air to prevent breathing problems from being added to your post-flooding problems.

","air-purifier-can-help-clear-air-irene-waters-recede","gid://shopify/Article/606880039211","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/air-purifier-can-help-clear-air-irene-waters-recede","2016-09-19T18:28:02Z",[1146],"Air purifier can help clear the air as Irene waters recede",{"_10":1168,"_243":1169,"_246":1170,"_248":1154,"_244":1155},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405647458678","water in living room","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/167_flood_banner.webp?v=1749464706",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1172,"_1115":1173,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1174,"_1136":1175,"_985":1176,"_10":1177,"_1140":1178,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1179,"_577":1180,"_541":1181,"_1149":1182},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"50 million Americans who suffer from allergies or asthma know when fall arrives better than most. If you count yourself in that 50 million and you don’t already own a high-efficiency air purifier such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus, now is a good time to get one. And if you live in Knoxville, Tenn., or a city like it, this is especially good advice. That’s because Knoxville is rated the #1 Fall Allergy Capital by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The new rankings were released yesterday. The majority of those millions of allergy and asthma sufferers tend to head indoors when autumn comes. They move inside to avoid the pollen and other triggers of their fall allergies. The irony, of course, is that the outside air becomes inside air every time a door or window opens. And the inside air has additional allergy triggers all its own. In fact, indoor air without an effective air purifier can be worse than outdoor air, a fact not lost on Dr. Clifford W.Bassett, medical director of Allergy and Asthma Care of New York. “Everyone, especially those with allergies and asthma, need to pay close attention to indoor air quality,” Bassett says. Additional allergy triggers inside the home that will add to the fall woes of allergy and asthma sufferers include mold, dust mites, pet dander, volatile organic compounds in household chemicals and even wood, flooring and paint. An air purifier will make a big difference, but most HEPA air purifiers stop only particles in the air, not gases. Effective gas filtration, such as that provided by the IQAir HealthPro Plus, requires a substantial media such as activated carbon to filter chemicals and volatile organic compounds. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America also recommends reducing household chemical compounds that trigger allergies. “A good step to improving the air quality of your home is as simple as not contaminating it in the first place,” says Mike Tringale of the Foundation. For example, Tringale recommends painting indoor walls with new paints that contain no volatile organic compounds. The Foundation also recommends using portable air purifiers in bedrooms and other common areas at home. Other advice: Control dust mites by washing linens at least weekly in water hotter than 130 degrees. This will kill dust mites and their eggs. Also, use a high-quality vacuum with no leaks and with a HEPA filter. Meanwhile, if you live in most areas of the United States you’re not much better off than the residents of Knoxville when it comes to fall allergies. The other Top 5 cities are scattered across the nation, and include Dayton, Ohio, McAllen, Texas, Jackson, Miss., and Oklahoma City, Okla. The rankings are based on the amount of airborne grass, tree and weed pollen and mold spores, allergy medication usage and number of allergy specialists per patient. With a high-efficiency air purifier at home, at least indoors will be free from pollens and other asthma and allergy triggers. And that may reduce or in some cases even eliminate the need for medications and allergy specialists.","

50 million Americans who suffer from allergies or asthma know when fall arrives better than most. If you count yourself in that 50 million and you don’t already own a high-efficiency air purifier such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus, now is a good time to get one. And if you live in Knoxville, Tenn., or a city like it, this is especially good advice. That’s because Knoxville is rated the #1 Fall Allergy Capital by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The new rankings were released yesterday.

The majority of those millions of allergy and asthma sufferers tend to head indoors when autumn comes. They move inside to avoid the pollen and other triggers of their fall allergies. The irony, of course, is that the outside air becomes inside air every time a door or window opens. And the inside air has additional allergy triggers all its own. In fact, indoor air without an effective air purifier can be worse than outdoor air, a fact not lost on Dr. Clifford W.Bassett, medical director of Allergy and Asthma Care of New York. “Everyone, especially those with allergies and asthma, need to pay close attention to indoor air quality,” Bassett says.

Additional allergy triggers inside the home that will add to the fall woes of allergy and asthma sufferers include mold, dust mites, pet dander, volatile organic compounds in household chemicals and even wood, flooring and paint. An air purifier will make a big difference, but most HEPA air purifiers stop only particles in the air, not gases. Effective gas filtration, such as that provided by the IQAir HealthPro Plus, requires a substantial media such as activated carbon to filter chemicals and volatile organic compounds.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America also recommends reducing household chemical compounds that trigger allergies. “A good step to improving the air quality of your home is as simple as not contaminating it in the first place,” says Mike Tringale of the Foundation. For example, Tringale recommends painting indoor walls with new paints that contain no volatile organic compounds. The Foundation also recommends using portable air purifiers in bedrooms and other common areas at home.

Other advice: Control dust mites by washing linens at least weekly in water hotter than 130 degrees. This will kill dust mites and their eggs. Also, use a high-quality vacuum with no leaks and with a HEPA filter.

Meanwhile, if you live in most areas of the United States you’re not much better off than the residents of Knoxville when it comes to fall allergies. The other Top 5 cities are scattered across the nation, and include Dayton, Ohio, McAllen, Texas, Jackson, Miss., and Oklahoma City, Okla. The rankings are based on the amount of airborne grass, tree and weed pollen and mold spores, allergy medication usage and number of allergy specialists per patient. With a high-efficiency air purifier at home, at least indoors will be free from pollens and other asthma and allergy triggers. And that may reduce or in some cases even eliminate the need for medications and allergy specialists.

","autumn-begins-friday-knoxville-get-your-air-purifiers-ready","gid://shopify/Article/606879809835","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/autumn-begins-friday-knoxville-get-your-air-purifiers-ready","2016-09-19T17:35:52Z",[390,1146,653],"Autumn begins Friday. Knoxville, get your air purifiers ready.",{"_10":1183,"_243":1184,"_246":1185,"_248":1154,"_244":1155},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405723644278","bridge over river ","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/156_knoxville_desktop.webp?v=1749635462",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1187,"_1115":1188,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1189,"_1136":1190,"_985":1191,"_10":1192,"_1140":1193,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1194,"_577":1195,"_541":1196,"_1149":1197},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"You probably already know that carpet traps and holds just about anything bad in the air where you live, work and play. So it might surprise you to hear the advice in a press release this week by a carpet dealer in Canada. Carpets are good for indoor air quality, the release says. And the mutual attraction between carpets and dust, dander, pollen, and pollution particles is a good thing too. “You can prevent particles and allergens from re-entering the air by trapping them in your carpet,” the release says. That’s a note also sounded by the industry-sponsoredCarpet and Rug Institute, which proclaims on its website: “Unlike smooth floor surfaces that allow dust and other allergens to re-circulate into the breathing zone, properly maintained carpet actually contributes to improved air quality.” The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in its site for school indoor air quality, cautions that carpet “acts as a reservoir for dust, dirt, pollen, mold spores, pesticides, and other materials. However, the EPA concedes that meticulous maintenance of carpet with a vacuum cleaner with high-performance filtration and also periodic wet extraction cleaning will remove the allergens and other bad stuff trapped in carpet. But, for asthma and allergy sufferers, other flooring options offer much better choices than carpet, says Allergic Living magazine in its Summer 2011 issue. The magazine spoke to “Green from the Ground Up” author David Johnston, who told the magazine, “Carpet and healthy houses are sorts of an oxymoron. You don’t want to use those two in the same sentence.” Formaldehyde-free laminates, hardwood, and tile flooring are the best choices for asthma and allergy sufferers, says Johnston. Of course, IQAir would agree with the American Lung Association that regardless of which flooring option you choose or live within your home, a high-performance HEPA air-filtration system (such as the IQAir Hyper HEPA air filtration system) will help you breathe more easily with any flooring option.","

You probably already know that carpet traps and holds just about anything bad in the air where you live, work and play.

So it might surprise you to hear the advice in a press release this week by a carpet dealer in Canada. Carpets are good for indoor air quality, the release says. And the mutual attraction between carpets and dust, dander, pollen, and pollution particles is a good thing too.

“You can prevent particles and allergens from re-entering the air by trapping them in your carpet,” the release says.

That’s a note also sounded by the industry-sponsoredCarpet and Rug Institute, which proclaims on its website: “Unlike smooth floor surfaces that allow dust and other allergens to re-circulate into the breathing zone, properly maintained carpet actually contributes to improved air quality.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in its site for school indoor air quality, cautions that carpet “acts as a reservoir for dust, dirt, pollen, mold spores, pesticides, and other materials. However, the EPA concedes that meticulous maintenance of carpet with a vacuum cleaner with high-performance filtration and also periodic wet extraction cleaning will remove the allergens and other bad stuff trapped in carpet.

But, for asthma and allergy sufferers, other flooring options offer much better choices than carpet, says Allergic Living magazine in its Summer 2011 issue.

The magazine spoke to “Green from the Ground Up” author David Johnston, who told the magazine, “Carpet and healthy houses are sorts of an oxymoron. You don’t want to use those two in the same sentence.” Formaldehyde-free laminates, hardwood, and tile flooring are the best choices for asthma and allergy sufferers, says Johnston.

Of course, IQAir would agree with the American Lung Association that regardless of which flooring option you choose or live within your home, a high-performance HEPA air-filtration system (such as the IQAir Hyper HEPA air filtration system) will help you breathe more easily with any flooring option.

","your-carpet-air-purifier","gid://shopify/Article/606879547691","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/your-carpet-air-purifier","2016-09-19T17:08:42Z",[390,1146],"Is your carpet an air purifier?",{"_10":1198,"_243":1199,"_246":1200,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405921530230","carpet samples of many colors","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/149_carpet_desktop_fba8d436-ee96-4038-aac6-e95be2d1fe58.jpg?v=1750320139",2880,1500,{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1204,"_1115":1205,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1206,"_1136":1207,"_985":1208,"_10":1209,"_1140":1210,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1211,"_577":1212,"_541":1214,"_1149":1215},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Mold grows anywhere there is water, and homes that sustain flood damage are likely to face substantial mold remediation issues. One type of mold commonly present where homes have been water damaged is Stachybotrys chartarum.What is black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum)?Black mold is the common name for the fungal genus Stachybotrys, species chartarum. Stachybotrys chartarum is also known as Stachybotrys atra. It is a greenish-black mold that needs moisture to grow. If airborne black mold spores land on a wet, porous surface, they will grow and release more spores. Black mold can grow in your home after water damage occurs, such as excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding. It’s a greenish-black mold that grows on fiberboard, gypsum board and other materials used in home construction.Is black mold “toxic”?The spores that molds release for reproduction have the potential to cause health issues. Mold spores can act as allergens, causing allergic reactions. In addition to spores, some molds produce mycotoxins (myco- is a prefix that means fungal). Mycotoxins cause a toxic response in humans and animals, even in small amounts. There are over 400 known mycotoxins and almost all of them suppress the immune system. S. chartarum (black mold) is a mold that creates and releases mycotoxins.The suppression of your immune system increases your risk of acquiring an infectious disease and reduces your body’s ability to fend off other contaminants. There is also evidence that mycotoxins can make you more susceptible to cancer. Symptoms that S. chartarum can cause include headache, cough, runny nose and can trigger asthma symptoms. It has also been connected to asthma in children exposed at schools.Where does black mold grow?Black mold grows on materials with high cellulose and low nitrogen content, including paper, dust, and lint. This includes some materials used in home construction, such as: Fiberboard: a building product made of wood and other plant materials often used as a replacement for traditional, solid wood to make furniture Gypsum board (drywall): used in most buildings for walls, ceilings and partitions How to prevent black mold growthThe best way to control mold growth is to control moisture. The mold spores will not grow if moisture is not present. Indoor mold growth can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture indoors. Begin cleaning up and drying out your home as soon as possible, ideally within 24 - 48 hours.How to clean up black mold after a flood Remove the moisture source. If moisture returns, the mold probably will too. If the water damage is confined to one area of your home, seal doorways or other openings. You can seal them by duct-taping heavy plastic to all edges. Place an exhaust fan in any openings to the outdoors. Use soap and a sponge to remove visible mold. If any moldy areas are dry, lightly spray a water mist on them. This will prevent you from sending mold spores into the air during cleaning. If you use bleach, make sure it won't cause discoloration. Never mix bleach with ammonia. It will create toxic fumes. Put all materials used in cleaning in a heavy duty garbage bag and seal it. Take the bag outside through the closest exit. You don’t want any spores to become airborne. Ways to protect yourself from black mold Wear respiratory (nose and mouth) protection when handling moldy materials. Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid contact with mold spores. Wash or discard the clothing after every cleaning. Wear gloves and protective eyewear. Using a high-performance HEPA mold air purifier can help clean the air, even as work progresses. For example, the IQAir HealthPro Plus can dramatically reduce airborne particulates including mold, and can also reduce or eliminate any musty odors. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that although Indoor Air Quality may not seem like the most important problem during flood cleanup, standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for viruses, bacteria and mold. Ensure your health safety by making it a priority. For more details and advice on dealing with mold and flood cleanup, visit epa.gov/mold.","

Mold grows anywhere there is water, and homes that sustain flood damage are likely to face substantial mold remediation issues. One type of mold commonly present where homes have been water damaged is Stachybotrys chartarum.

What is black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum)?

Black mold is the common name for the fungal genus Stachybotrys, species chartarum. Stachybotrys chartarum is also known as Stachybotrys atra. It is a greenish-black mold that needs moisture to grow. If airborne black mold spores land on a wet, porous surface, they will grow and release more spores. Black mold can grow in your home after water damage occurs, such as excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding. It’s a greenish-black mold that grows on fiberboard, gypsum board and other materials used in home construction.

Is black mold “toxic”?

The spores that molds release for reproduction have the potential to cause health issues. Mold spores can act as allergens, causing allergic reactions. In addition to spores, some molds produce mycotoxins (myco- is a prefix that means fungal). Mycotoxins cause a toxic response in humans and animals, even in small amounts. There are over 400 known mycotoxins and almost all of them suppress the immune system. S. chartarum (black mold) is a mold that creates and releases mycotoxins.

The suppression of your immune system increases your risk of acquiring an infectious disease and reduces your body’s ability to fend off other contaminants. There is also evidence that mycotoxins can make you more susceptible to cancer. Symptoms that S. chartarum can cause include headache, cough, runny nose and can trigger asthma symptoms. It has also been connected to asthma in children exposed at schools.

Where does black mold grow?

Black mold grows on materials with high cellulose and low nitrogen content, including paper, dust, and lint. This includes some materials used in home construction, such as:

\n\n\t
Fiberboard: a building product made of wood and other plant materials often used as a replacement for traditional, solid wood to make furniture
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
Gypsum board (drywall): used in most buildings for walls, ceilings and partitions
\n\n\t

How to prevent black mold growth

The best way to control mold growth is to control moisture. The mold spores will not grow if moisture is not present. Indoor mold growth can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture indoors. Begin cleaning up and drying out your home as soon as possible, ideally within 24 - 48 hours.

How to clean up black mold after a flood

\n\n\t
Remove the moisture source. If moisture returns, the mold probably will too.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
If the water damage is confined to one area of your home, seal doorways or other openings. You can seal them by duct-taping heavy plastic to all edges.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
Place an exhaust fan in any openings to the outdoors.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
Use soap and a sponge to remove visible mold.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
If any moldy areas are dry, lightly spray a water mist on them. This will prevent you from sending mold spores into the air during cleaning.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
If you use bleach, make sure it won't cause discoloration. Never mix bleach with ammonia. It will create toxic fumes.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
Put all materials used in cleaning in a heavy duty garbage bag and seal it. Take the bag outside through the closest exit. You don’t want any spores to become airborne.
\n\n\t

Ways to protect yourself from black mold

\n\n\t
Wear respiratory (nose and mouth) protection when handling moldy materials.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid contact with mold spores. Wash or discard the clothing after every cleaning.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
Wear gloves and protective eyewear.
\n\n\t
\n\n\t
Using a high-performance HEPA mold air purifier can help clean the air, even as work progresses. For example, the IQAir HealthPro Plus can dramatically reduce airborne particulates including mold, and can also reduce or eliminate any musty odors.
\n\n\t

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that although Indoor Air Quality may not seem like the most important problem during flood cleanup, standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for viruses, bacteria and mold. Ensure your health safety by making it a priority. For more details and advice on dealing with mold and flood cleanup, visit epa.gov/mold.

","flood-damage-black-mold-stachybotrys","gid://shopify/Article/606879514923","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/flood-damage-black-mold-stachybotrys","2016-09-19T17:04:28Z",[1146,653,1213],"Molds","Flood damage: Meet Stachybotrus charatrum (a.k.a. black mold)",{"_10":1216,"_243":1217,"_246":1218,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406140518774","wet floor mat","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/148_flood_desktop_53a9ebac-45f3-44a3-bf8b-14ae25b9275e.jpg?v=1751023820",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1220,"_1115":1221,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1222,"_1136":1223,"_985":1224,"_10":1225,"_1140":1226,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1227,"_577":1228,"_541":1229,"_1149":1230},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Chemists at The Ohio State University recently enjoyed an unplanned opportunity to finely examine the contents of dust, and the results should be of interest to air purifier users as well as health researchers. The chemists found no fewer than 63 different types of particles making up the dust specimen. The scientists were actually testing a new metal-mesh sensor designed to study the mixture of electrons and photons, when dust clogged the device. Only then did they realize their equipment could measure the component particles in the dust. The most common ingredient they found was “organic” material, followed by quartz and man-made chemicals including air pollution, fertilizers and construction materials. What kind of “organic” material? The researchers weren’t sure, but promised a follow up study. Many people believe that indoor dust contains mostly dead skin cells. But in fact dust mites, pet dander, pollen, viruses and mold spores are more common indoor air pollutants that are biological. Mechanical air purifiers are effective at removing any of these, but of course only if the contaminants are suspended in the air. Some particles settle on carpets or upholstery and these cannot be removed by an air purifier until they are kicked up into the air by activities such as vacuuming or people walking across the carpet. Cyclists, meanwhile, are worried about another recent study that indicated cyclists are exposed to twice as much black carbon from vehicle exhaust than were pedestrians. Black carbon is a form of particle pollution formed by the combustion of fossils fuels, and is linked to increased risk of cancer, heart disease, allergies, asthma and other respiratory illnesses. The researchers factored out other possible causes, including age, distance walked/cycled, lung function or even amount time time spent exercising. This is not good news for urban cyclists – at least until someone invents an air purifier that fits on handlebars. Researchers from the London School of Medicine told Reuters news service suggested that seek out alternative routes away from traffic. The cyclists levels of black carbon in sputum samples were 2-3 times higher than the pedestrians. The researchers speculate that cyclists breathe more deeply and faster than pedestrians in traffic.","

Chemists at The Ohio State University recently enjoyed an unplanned opportunity to finely examine the contents of dust, and the results should be of interest to air purifier users as well as health researchers. The chemists found no fewer than 63 different types of particles making up the dust specimen. The scientists were actually testing a new metal-mesh sensor designed to study the mixture of electrons and photons, when dust clogged the device. Only then did they realize their equipment could measure the component particles in the dust. The most common ingredient they found was “organic” material, followed by quartz and man-made chemicals including air pollution, fertilizers and construction materials.

What kind of “organic” material? The researchers weren’t sure, but promised a follow up study. Many people believe that indoor dust contains mostly dead skin cells. But in fact dust mites, pet dander, pollen, viruses and mold spores are more common indoor air pollutants that are biological. Mechanical air purifiers are effective at removing any of these, but of course only if the contaminants are suspended in the air. Some particles settle on carpets or upholstery and these cannot be removed by an air purifier until they are kicked up into the air by activities such as vacuuming or people walking across the carpet.

Cyclists, meanwhile, are worried about another recent study that indicated cyclists are exposed to twice as much black carbon from vehicle exhaust than were pedestrians. Black carbon is a form of particle pollution formed by the combustion of fossils fuels, and is linked to increased risk of cancer, heart disease, allergies, asthma and other respiratory illnesses. The researchers factored out other possible causes, including age, distance walked/cycled, lung function or even amount time time spent exercising. This is not good news for urban cyclists – at least until someone invents an air purifier that fits on handlebars. Researchers from the London School of Medicine told Reuters news service suggested that seek out alternative routes away from traffic.

The cyclists levels of black carbon in sputum samples were 2-3 times higher than the pedestrians. The researchers speculate that cyclists breathe more deeply and faster than pedestrians in traffic.

","dust-specimen-yields-63-components-meanwhile-cyclists-worry-about-one","gid://shopify/Article/606879482155","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/dust-specimen-yields-63-components-meanwhile-cyclists-worry-about-one","2016-09-19T17:02:56Z",[390,1146,653],"Dust specimen yields 63 components; Meanwhile, cyclists worry about one",{"_10":1231,"_243":1232,"_246":1233,"_248":1154,"_244":1155},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405835710838","dusty table top","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/147_dust_desktop.webp?v=1750067538",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1235,"_1115":1236,"_1131":1237,"_1133":1237,"_1134":1238,"_1136":1239,"_985":1240,"_10":1241,"_1140":1242,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1243,"_577":1244,"_541":1245,"_1149":1246},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Asthma sufferers are much more vulnerable to dust mite allergens – and can suffer much more severe consequences as a result. Learn why and what you can do about it.","Many people are allergic to dust mites – more specifically, the allergens that originate in their droppings, which contain substances that can trigger symptoms like itching, sneezing, and coughing.1,2For most of us, dust mite allergy symptoms come and go, especially if the dust mite problem is taken care of with professional pest control services.But for people with asthma, dust mite allergens can trigger major immune system responses that result in much more severe symptoms, such as chest tightness, wheezing, and trouble breathing.3And even after you reduce or remove your exposure to these allergens, the damage caused by inflammation linked to the asthmatic immune system response can result in harm to the very genetic material in the lungs themselves.4And for the millions of people who suffer from asthma, this genetic damage of inflammation from dust mite exposure can cause lifelong health issues, which starts from worsening asthma symptoms and can gradually turn into more severe respiratory conditions.A groundbreaking study on dust mites and asthmaA 2016 study in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology first broke the news about just how harmful dust mite allergens can be to people with asthma.5Using samples of lung tissue from people with asthma, researchers in the study exposed the samples to allergens from dust mites and looked at the following variables: breaks in the DNA strands of lung tissue the activity of DNA repair proteins in response to allergens the increased presence of lung cell death (apoptosis) that makes way for the production of new cells the effect of dust mite allergens on tissue in the lungs called bronchial epithelial cells, which are responsible for many immune system responses in the lungs when exposed to allergy triggers6 The researchers found that exposure to dust mite allergens caused inflammatory proteins called cytokines to work even harder than usual, which can cause long-term tissue damage.And dust mite allergens also caused the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lungs – ROS, also known as free radicals, are unstable molecules that can move around your tissues and result in systemic inflammation and DNA damage throughout the body.Over time, inflammation in your lungs associated with asthma can lead to the development of cancer cells as well as other conditions like diabetes, cognitive decline, and premature aging.7Dust mite allergens aren’t just a nuisance if you have asthma. They can be a real threat to your health – not only do they make asthma worse, they can also pave the way for many other much more severe conditions.And an earlier 2014 study found these sorts of processes happening beyond the lungs – damage from ROS from exposure to dust mite allergens in people with asthma can be found in circulating blood throughout your body.8But it’s not all doom and gloom – in response to inflammation, your lung tissues ramp up their DNA repair processes, including the process known as apoptosis, or programmed cell death.Along with other mechanisms for fixing DNA damage, such as breaking the strands of DNA to help ensure the production of new DNA, apoptosis helps your body fix the damage caused by the asthmatic response of dust mite allergens.9How do I protect myself from dust mite allergies if I have asthma?Over time, constant exposure to dust mite allergens can overpower your body’s ability to repair your tissues from damage from inflammation.So the first step in protecting yourself is removing the source of dust mites altogether. There are a few ways you can do this, both by reducing the chances dust mites have to breed in your home and by stopping them from getting into your home ever again: Keep your indoor humidity lower than 55%. Dust mites love moisture, so a dryer environment can help keep them from reproducing. Minimize carpeting throughout your home, as dust mites thrive in Remove carpeting from the bedroom, if possible. Don’t let your pets spend too much time in your bedroom, where they can track in dust mites and their eggs. Replace your mattress and pillows at least once every eight years or more if you have severe dust mite allergies and use dust mite-resistant casing for your bedding. Use a high-efficiency dust mite air purifier. The HealthPro Plus helps remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, designed to capture not only particulate matter from dust mite droppings but also gases and odors that can cause respiratory irritation and asthma attacks. The Perfect 16 whole-house air purifier can also help purify the air using your HVAC system if you have a dust mite issue throughout your home.","

Many people are allergic to dust mites – more specifically, the allergens that originate in their droppings, which contain substances that can trigger symptoms like itching, sneezing, and coughing.^1,2

For most of us, dust mite allergy symptoms come and go, especially if the dust mite problem is taken care of with professional pest control services.

But for people with asthma, dust mite allergens can trigger major immune system responses that result in much more severe symptoms, such as chest tightness, wheezing, and trouble breathing.³

And even after you reduce or remove your exposure to these allergens, the damage caused by inflammation linked to the asthmatic immune system response can result in harm to the very genetic material in the lungs themselves.⁴

And for the millions of people who suffer from asthma, this genetic damage of inflammation from dust mite exposure can cause lifelong health issues, which starts from worsening asthma symptoms and can gradually turn into more severe respiratory conditions.

A groundbreaking study on dust mites and asthma

A 2016 study in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology first broke the news about just how harmful dust mite allergens can be to people with asthma.⁵

Using samples of lung tissue from people with asthma, researchers in the study exposed the samples to allergens from dust mites and looked at the following variables:

breaks in the DNA strands of lung tissue
the activity of DNA repair proteins in response to allergens
the increased presence of lung cell death (apoptosis) that makes way for the production of new cells
the effect of dust mite allergens on tissue in the lungs called bronchial epithelial cells, which are responsible for many immune system responses in the lungs when exposed to allergy triggers⁶\n

The researchers found that exposure to dust mite allergens caused inflammatory proteins called cytokines to work even harder than usual, which can cause long-term tissue damage.

And dust mite allergens also caused the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lungs – ROS, also known as free radicals, are unstable molecules that can move around your tissues and result in systemic inflammation and DNA damage throughout the body.

Over time, inflammation in your lungs associated with asthma can lead to the development of cancer cells as well as other conditions like diabetes, cognitive decline, and premature aging.⁷

Dust mite allergens aren’t just a nuisance if you have asthma. They can be a real threat to your health – not only do they make asthma worse, they can also pave the way for many other much more severe conditions.

And an earlier 2014 study found these sorts of processes happening beyond the lungs – damage from ROS from exposure to dust mite allergens in people with asthma can be found in circulating blood throughout your body.⁸

But it’s not all doom and gloom – in response to inflammation, your lung tissues ramp up their DNA repair processes, including the process known as apoptosis, or programmed cell death.

Along with other mechanisms for fixing DNA damage, such as breaking the strands of DNA to help ensure the production of new DNA, apoptosis helps your body fix the damage caused by the asthmatic response of dust mite allergens.⁹

How do I protect myself from dust mite allergies if I have asthma?

Over time, constant exposure to dust mite allergens can overpower your body’s ability to repair your tissues from damage from inflammation.

So the first step in protecting yourself is removing the source of dust mites altogether. There are a few ways you can do this, both by reducing the chances dust mites have to breed in your home and by stopping them from getting into your home ever again:

\nKeep your indoor humidity lower than 55%. Dust mites love moisture, so a dryer environment can help keep them from reproducing.
\nMinimize carpeting throughout your home, as dust mites thrive in Remove carpeting from the bedroom, if possible.
\nDon’t let your pets spend too much time in your bedroom, where they can track in dust mites and their eggs.
\nReplace your mattress and pillows at least once every eight years or more if you have severe dust mite allergies and use dust mite-resistant casing for your bedding.
\nUse a high-efficiency dust mite air purifier. The HealthPro Plus helps remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, designed to capture not only particulate matter from dust mite droppings but also gases and odors that can cause respiratory irritation and asthma attacks. The Perfect 16 whole-house air purifier can also help purify the air using your HVAC system if you have a dust mite issue throughout your home.
\n\n\t

","study-dust-mites-mold-are-problems-many-asthma","gid://shopify/Article/606879449387","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/study-dust-mites-mold-are-problems-many-asthma","2016-09-19T17:01:01Z",[390,1146],"Study: Dust mites problem for many with asthma",{"_10":1247,"_243":1248,"_246":1249,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405536997750","A close up of a dust mite.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/146_mites_desktop_340a3309-3d52-4126-95ab-d4d5ff58f8cf.jpg?v=1749033018",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1251,"_1115":1252,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1253,"_1136":1254,"_985":1255,"_10":1256,"_1140":1257,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1258,"_577":1259,"_541":1260,"_1149":1261},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Yesterday we covered the basics of “VOCs”– what they are, where they come from and what you can do about them. Here’s Part 2 of our primer on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):What are they key signs or symptoms of health problems caused by volatile organic compounds? Eye irritation Nose and throat discomfort Headache Allergic skin reactions Shortness of breath Blood test results showing a decline in serum cholinesterase levels Nausea Nosebleed (usually indicates formaldehyde) Fatigue Dizziness. The best idea is to take action now to protect your home and workplace against the buildup of dangerous VOCs. As we mentioned yesterday, a high-performance air purifier such as the IQAir GC Series can effectively remove VOCs from the air. But your first line of defense is to minimize the presence of these chemicals at home or work. Here’s solid advice from the EPA: Safely throw away partially full containers of oils or unneeded chemicals. Buy limited quantities; don’t keep extra chemicals around the house or workplace. Keep exposure to emissions from products containing methylene chloride to a minimum. Consumer products with methylene chloride include paint strippers, adhesive removers and aerosol sprays. Limit exposure to benzene, a known human carcinogen found in tobacco smoke, stored fuels, paint supplies and auto emissions. Limit exposure to perchloroethylene emissions from newly dry-cleaned materials. For more information and an excellent review of the many issues of VOCs and indoor air quality, check out “Indoor Air Pollution,” a booklet from the EPA and a host of leading medical groups.","

Yesterday we covered the basics of “VOCs”– what they are, where they come from and what you can do about them. Here’s Part 2 of our primer on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):

What are they key signs or symptoms of health problems caused by volatile organic compounds?

Eye irritation
Nose and throat discomfort
Headache
Allergic skin reactions
Shortness of breath
Blood test results showing a decline in serum cholinesterase levels
Nausea
Nosebleed (usually indicates formaldehyde)
Fatigue
Dizziness.

The best idea is to take action now to protect your home and workplace against the buildup of dangerous VOCs. As we mentioned yesterday, a high-performance air purifier such as the IQAir GC Series can effectively remove VOCs from the air. But your first line of defense is to minimize the presence of these chemicals at home or work. Here’s solid advice from the EPA:

Safely throw away partially full containers of oils or unneeded chemicals.
Buy limited quantities; don’t keep extra chemicals around the house or workplace.
Keep exposure to emissions from products containing methylene chloride to a minimum. Consumer products with methylene chloride include paint strippers, adhesive removers and aerosol sprays.
Limit exposure to benzene, a known human carcinogen found in tobacco smoke, stored fuels, paint supplies and auto emissions.
Limit exposure to perchloroethylene emissions from newly dry-cleaned materials.

For more information and an excellent review of the many issues of VOCs and indoor air quality, check out “Indoor Air Pollution,” a booklet from the EPA and a host of leading medical groups.

","introduction-air-purifiers-and-vocs-part-2","gid://shopify/Article/606879187243","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/introduction-air-purifiers-and-vocs-part-2","2016-09-16T22:19:41Z",[853,390,1146],"Introduction to air purifiers and VOCs, Part 2",{"_10":1262,"_243":1263,"_246":1264,"_248":1154,"_244":1155},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405353595254","woman with bad reaction to VOCs","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/22_VOSs_part2_banner_a5b19e8a-6da3-430a-be8e-63d600085a00.webp?v=1748445175",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1266,"_1115":1267,"_1131":1268,"_1133":1268,"_1134":1269,"_1136":1270,"_985":1271,"_10":1272,"_1140":1273,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1274,"_577":1275,"_541":1276,"_1149":1277},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"A Mississippi man was awarded $322 million last week in what his lawyers claim is the largest asbestos settlement ever for a single plaintiff. The case brings asbestos back into the indoor air quality spotlight.","AMississippi man was awarded $322 million last week in what his lawyers claim is the largest asbestos settlement ever for a single plaintiff. The case brings asbestos back into the indoor air quality spotlight. Asbestos is a generic name given to a fibrous variety of six naturally occurring minerals that float in the air and are easily breathed into the lungs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People exposed to asbestos have developed several types of life-threatening diseases, including lung cancer, the CDC says. Though the use of asbestos and asbestos products has dramatically decreased, they are still found in many residential and commercial settings and continue to pose a health risk to workers and others. Asbestos control and removal workers are advised by the Environmental Protection Agency to use HEPA filters to help control the spread of the tiny fibers during remediation. Often, asbestos can be found in the insulation of homes built between 1930 and 1950. It can also be found in many other places in the home, including some roofing and siding shingles, textured paint and and patching compounds, coverings on hot water and steam pipes in older homes, and elsewhere. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that you leave asbestos material alone if it is in good condition. If the material is a problem, removal or repair is advised. For more information check out “Asbestos in Your Home” by the EPA.","

AMississippi man was awarded $322 million last week in what his lawyers claim is the largest asbestos settlement ever for a single plaintiff. The case brings asbestos back into the indoor air quality spotlight.

Asbestos is a generic name given to a fibrous variety of six naturally occurring minerals that float in the air and are easily breathed into the lungs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

People exposed to asbestos have developed several types of life-threatening diseases, including lung cancer, the CDC says. Though the use of asbestos and asbestos products has dramatically decreased, they are still found in many residential and commercial settings and continue to pose a health risk to workers and others.

Asbestos control and removal workers are advised by the Environmental Protection Agency to use HEPA filters to help control the spread of the tiny fibers during remediation.

Often, asbestos can be found in the insulation of homes built between 1930 and 1950. It can also be found in many other places in the home, including some roofing and siding shingles, textured paint and and patching compounds, coverings on hot water and steam pipes in older homes, and elsewhere.

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that you leave asbestos material alone if it is in good condition. If the material is a problem, removal or repair is advised.

For more information check out “Asbestos in Your Home” by the EPA.

","asbestos-case-air-quality-reminder","gid://shopify/Article/606879023403","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/asbestos-case-air-quality-reminder","2016-09-16T21:59:15Z",[390,1146],"Asbestos case is air-quality reminder",{"_10":1278,"_243":1279,"_246":1280,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405752611190","Asbestos","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/135_asbestos_desktop_7ddaa80c-56db-4932-b73b-996776df7e0a.jpg?v=1749727841",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1282,"_1115":1283,"_1131":1284,"_1133":1284,"_1134":1285,"_1136":1286,"_985":1287,"_10":1288,"_1140":1289,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1290,"_577":1291,"_541":1293,"_1149":1294},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"When your pet starts scratching, it’s a sign that dust mites are causing allergies for your household pets. Learn more.","When winter approaches and the outside temperature drops, the furnace at home fires up and your cat or dog starts scratching.That’s because dust mites are being stirred up from the heating ducts and other surfaces, causing allergic reactions for your household pets.1If you find this happening in your home, a dust mite air purifier is going to be an important part of your pet’s allergy solution. They’re not the only ones who’ll benefit, though: because household pets are allergic to many of the same allergens as humans are, those dust mites blown into the air from the furnace may be affecting your pets and affecting you, too.2,3What are dust mites and why are they a health concern?Dust mites are tiny eight-legged creatures – they’re arachnids like spiders, not insects. They’re typically 250-300 microns in diameter, invisible to the eye without the aid of a microscope.4 That’s fairly large compared to the abundant fine and ultrafine air pollution particles that also trigger allergies and asthma.5 Dust mites feed on dead skin from both pet owners and pets alike. They are common and year-round sources of potential allergic reactions.In the case of dust mites, the mites themselves contain protein molecules that trigger respiratory problems.6 Even if dust mites die, as they may in low humidity environments, their droppings, skins, dead bodies, and body parts can cause allergic reactions.These allergens get stirred up and become airborne when the furnace turns on and dust accumulated in the vents begins blowing out into the occupied spaces of your home.Even the interior of our vehicles can be a source of dust mites.7 According to a study published in the Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine 2015, dust mites both driver and child seats are habitats for a wide range of dust mite species.8 The mites were found at concentration levels known to cause or aggravate allergies in some individuals.What are the symptoms of a dust mite allergy? If you suffer from a dust mite allergy, you may experience some of these symptoms:9 sneezing cough wheezing runny or congested nose eye irritation itchy skin, nose, mouth, or throat facial pain and pressure breathing problems Dust mite allergens can contribute to worsened asthma and allergic rhinitis.While not everyone is allergic to dust mites, a 2007 study in the Journal of Allergy & Clinical Immunology found that early childhood exposure to dust mites could lead to an increased chance of developing asthma and wheeze.10What do I look for in a dust mite air purifier?Experts say a mechanical HEPA air purifier is a first line of defense against mites and their remains once they are airborne.11But inexpensive air cleaners that use unproven or dangerous technologies, such as ozone generation or ionization, are not the solution. In fact, by adding ozoneinto the air, they will trigger even worse allergies.12,13,14Ozone is a serious pollutant and respiratory irritant. Ground-level ozone, or smog, is created when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds chemically react with sunlight. Exposure to ozone can harm respiratory systems.Pro tip: Go for HyperHEPAInstead of bringing additional dangerous pollutants to your environment, seek out an air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration technology that effectively cleans your indoor air.If you want to reduce the risk of dust mite allergies, you’ll want an air purifier that moves a significant volume of air through its filters. You should purchase a system with a pre-filter to trap large particles, and one with a motor to actively draw air into the unit.The HealthPro Series PreMax prefilter helps filter coarse particles, while the HyperHEPA filter captures up to 99.5% of ultrafine particles as small as to .003 microns — particles far smaller than a dust mite.It’s important to replace an air purifier’s filters as frequently as recommended.According to a 2015 study published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, concentrations of dust mite allergens increased significantly in dining room, shopping mall, hotel, and household dust samples after air conditioning had been used for one hour.15 The study concluded that air-conditioned filters that haven’t been cleaned or regularly replaced can increase exposure to dust mite allergens, potentially leading to asthma.Experts recommend high-efficiency particle filtrationWhile a high-efficiency air purifier is an essential first-line of defense against dust mites, there are several steps you can take to combat dust mites and dust-mite related allergens in your home.16 Use allergen-proof and dust mite-proof coverson your bed and the pet’s bed. Avoid dust mite-friendly fabrics.Wall-to-wall carpeting, upholstered furniture and down-filled covers, and pillows are good hiding places for dust mites. If you can, choose vinyl, hardwood, or tile flooring solutions. Replace your mattress and pillows at least once every eight yearsor more if you have severe dust mite allergies and use dust mite-resistant casing for your bedding. Keep humidity levels low.17 Dust mites thrive in humid environments, between 50 and 70% relative humidity. Try to keep your indoor humidity between 30-50% so that the air doesn’t get too dry and cause other respiratory issues.18 Buy washable pet toysmade of rubber, silicone, or washable materials used both inside and outside the toy. Try to buy toys from companies that use tough and sustainable materials that won’t generate airborne particulate matter from being used or contribute plastic or chemical pollutants into your home environment. Wash pet beds regularly(about once a week or so) with hot water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit or more and gentle, unscented detergents without artificial chemicals or dyes. Avoid cedar shavings to reduce potential allergies for dogs. Frequently groom your pet, outdoors if possible.Besides keeping your pets clean, you’ll reduce their dust mites and pet dander as allergens in your home. Vacuum regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filterto capture dust and particulate matter rather than disturbing it and making it airborne again. Household dust carries chemicals that can be dangerous when inhaled, especially to young children.19 Minimize dust and clutter.Cluttered areas attract dust. Clean surfaces with a damp rag or mop to remove dust. Without the damp, dust and dust mites may become airborne and resettle on surfaces. Clean air duct vents regularlyto keep your HVAC system free of dust, dust mites, and allergen build-up. Consider installing a whole-house air purifierto prevent particulate matter and outdoor pollutants from ever entering your HVAC system in the first place and circulate fresh air throughout your entire home. Add a purifier to your car.Since dust mites can hide in your vehicle’s interior, consider installing a car air purifier to your vehicle interior.","

When winter approaches and the outside temperature drops, the furnace at home fires up and your cat or dog starts scratching.

That’s because dust mites are being stirred up from the heating ducts and other surfaces, causing allergic reactions for your household pets.¹

If you find this happening in your home, a dust mite air purifier is going to be an important part of your pet’s allergy solution. They’re not the only ones who’ll benefit, though: because household pets are allergic to many of the same allergens as humans are, those dust mites blown into the air from the furnace may be affecting your pets and affecting you, too.^2,3

What are dust mites and why are they a health concern?

Dust mites are tiny eight-legged creatures – they’re arachnids like spiders, not insects. They’re typically 250-300 microns in diameter, invisible to the eye without the aid of a microscope.⁴ That’s fairly large compared to the abundant fine and ultrafine air pollution particles that also trigger allergies and asthma.⁵ Dust mites feed on dead skin from both pet owners and pets alike. They are common and year-round sources of potential allergic reactions.

In the case of dust mites, the mites themselves contain protein molecules that trigger respiratory problems.⁶ Even if dust mites die, as they may in low humidity environments, their droppings, skins, dead bodies, and body parts can cause allergic reactions.

These allergens get stirred up and become airborne when the furnace turns on and dust accumulated in the vents begins blowing out into the occupied spaces of your home.

Even the interior of our vehicles can be a source of dust mites.⁷ According to a study published in the Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine 2015, dust mites both driver and child seats are habitats for a wide range of dust mite species.⁸ The mites were found at concentration levels known to cause or aggravate allergies in some individuals.

What are the symptoms of a dust mite allergy? If you suffer from a dust mite allergy, you may experience some of these symptoms:⁹

sneezing
cough
wheezing
runny or congested nose
eye irritation
itchy skin, nose, mouth, or throat
facial pain and pressure
breathing problems

Dust mite allergens can contribute to worsened asthma and allergic rhinitis.

While not everyone is allergic to dust mites, a 2007 study in the Journal of Allergy & Clinical Immunology found that early childhood exposure to dust mites could lead to an increased chance of developing asthma and wheeze.¹⁰

What do I look for in a dust mite air purifier?

Experts say a mechanical HEPA air purifier is a first line of defense against mites and their remains once they are airborne.¹¹

But inexpensive air cleaners that use unproven or dangerous technologies, such as ozone generation or ionization, are not the solution. In fact, by adding ozoneinto the air, they will trigger even worse allergies.^12,13,14

Ozone is a serious pollutant and respiratory irritant. Ground-level ozone, or smog, is created when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds chemically react with sunlight. Exposure to ozone can harm respiratory systems.

Pro tip: Go for HyperHEPA

Instead of bringing additional dangerous pollutants to your environment, seek out an air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration technology that effectively cleans your indoor air.

If you want to reduce the risk of dust mite allergies, you’ll want an air purifier that moves a significant volume of air through its filters. You should purchase a system with a pre-filter to trap large particles, and one with a motor to actively draw air into the unit.

The HealthPro Series PreMax prefilter helps filter coarse particles, while the HyperHEPA filter captures up to 99.5% of ultrafine particles as small as to .003 microns — particles far smaller than a dust mite.

It’s important to replace an air purifier’s filters as frequently as recommended.According to a 2015 study published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, concentrations of dust mite allergens increased significantly in dining room, shopping mall, hotel, and household dust samples after air conditioning had been used for one hour.¹⁵ The study concluded that air-conditioned filters that haven’t been cleaned or regularly replaced can increase exposure to dust mite allergens, potentially leading to asthma.

Experts recommend high-efficiency particle filtration

While a high-efficiency air purifier is an essential first-line of defense against dust mites, there are several steps you can take to combat dust mites and dust-mite related allergens in your home.¹⁶

\nUse allergen-proof and dust mite-proof coverson your bed and the pet’s bed.
\nAvoid dust mite-friendly fabrics.Wall-to-wall carpeting, upholstered furniture and down-filled covers, and pillows are good hiding places for dust mites. If you can, choose vinyl, hardwood, or tile flooring solutions.
\nReplace your mattress and pillows at least once every eight yearsor more if you have severe dust mite allergies and use dust mite-resistant casing for your bedding.
\nKeep humidity levels low.¹⁷ Dust mites thrive in humid environments, between 50 and 70% relative humidity. Try to keep your indoor humidity between 30-50% so that the air doesn’t get too dry and cause other respiratory issues.¹⁸\n
\nBuy washable pet toysmade of rubber, silicone, or washable materials used both inside and outside the toy. Try to buy toys from companies that use tough and sustainable materials that won’t generate airborne particulate matter from being used or contribute plastic or chemical pollutants into your home environment.
\nWash pet beds regularly(about once a week or so) with hot water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit or more and gentle, unscented detergents without artificial chemicals or dyes. Avoid cedar shavings to reduce potential allergies for dogs.
\nFrequently groom your pet, outdoors if possible.Besides keeping your pets clean, you’ll reduce their dust mites and pet dander as allergens in your home.
\nVacuum regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filterto capture dust and particulate matter rather than disturbing it and making it airborne again. Household dust carries chemicals that can be dangerous when inhaled, especially to young children.¹⁹\n
\nMinimize dust and clutter.Cluttered areas attract dust. Clean surfaces with a damp rag or mop to remove dust. Without the damp, dust and dust mites may become airborne and resettle on surfaces.
\nClean air duct vents regularlyto keep your HVAC system free of dust, dust mites, and allergen build-up.
\nConsider installing a whole-house air purifierto prevent particulate matter and outdoor pollutants from ever entering your HVAC system in the first place and circulate fresh air throughout your entire home.
\nAdd a purifier to your car.Since dust mites can hide in your vehicle’s interior, consider installing a car air purifier to your vehicle interior.

","how-to-use-air-purifier-to-protect-you-pets-from-dust-mites","gid://shopify/Article/606878925099","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/how-to-use-air-purifier-to-protect-you-pets-from-dust-mites","2016-09-16T21:45:16Z",[1146,1292],"Pets","Protect you and your pets from dust mites",{"_10":1295,"_243":1296,"_246":1297,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/223835685163","A dog licks a young woman's face while she lays in her bed.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/130_fido_desktop_84a74c70-7d6e-44a4-baa2-5f6ebf3bb680.jpg?v=1705573866",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1299,"_1115":1300,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1301,"_1136":1302,"_985":1303,"_10":1304,"_1140":1305,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1306,"_577":1307,"_541":1308,"_1149":1309},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Most vacuum cleaners, regardless of age or price, are a significant source of dangerous ultrafine particles and also help spread toxic bacteria, according to a new study. The study would seem to indicate that a high-efficiency air purifier that is effective against tiny ultrafine particles is perhaps the only line of defense against the effects of vacuuming on indoor air quality. And the study found that vacuum cleaners contribute to indoor air quality problems not just by generating particle pollution but also by spreading bacteria.The study was conducted by researchers at Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia. The results were first published by the American Chemical Society late last year. The research team included Professor Lidia Morawska, co-author of the book “Indoor Environment: Airborne Particles and Dust.” Her past research has focused on an array of air quality topics including the effects of laser printers on IAQ.The vacuum-cleaner study examined more than 20 vacuums from 11 manufacturers, ranging from new up to 22 years old and in various price ranges from $100 to almost $800. The study found a wide variability in emissions from the 21 vacuums. In the end, the study concluded that emissions levels were not directly attributed to price, age or other factors.Perhaps even more concerning, the researchers found that all of the vacuums they tested emitted a wide range of ultrafine particles, the smallest and more harmful particles in air pollution. Ultrafine particles, defined as those smaller than 0.1 microns in diameter, generally represent about 90 percent of all the pollutants in the air. These tiny particles are small enough to be inhaled and absorbed directly into the bloodstream, and result in increased allergies and asthma, heart attacks, strokes and even cancer.The study noted that many vacuums not only redistribute ultrafine particles that have settled onto surfaces, but the vacuums generate substantial levels of additional ultrafines particles on their own as a result of using motors with carbon brushes. Past studies have shown that vacuum motors generate ultrafine particles containing copper and carbon. Carbon ultrafine particles can irritate allergies and ultrafine carbon particles can be toxic, the researchers noted.Meanwhile, the study found that vacuum cleaners can also be a problematic source of bacteria emissions. Vacuum cleaner dust bags can trap and hold live bacteria for up to two months, they said. Vacuum emissions include salmonella and other bacteria that “have potential to spread infectious or sensitizing aerosols,” they concluded.","

Most vacuum cleaners, regardless of age or price, are a significant source of dangerous ultrafine particles and also help spread toxic bacteria, according to a new study. The study would seem to indicate that a high-efficiency air purifier that is effective against tiny ultrafine particles is perhaps the only line of defense against the effects of vacuuming on indoor air quality. And the study found that vacuum cleaners contribute to indoor air quality problems not just by generating particle pollution but also by spreading bacteria.

The study was conducted by researchers at Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia. The results were first published by the American Chemical Society late last year. The research team included Professor Lidia Morawska, co-author of the book “Indoor Environment: Airborne Particles and Dust.” Her past research has focused on an array of air quality topics including the effects of laser printers on IAQ.

The vacuum-cleaner study examined more than 20 vacuums from 11 manufacturers, ranging from new up to 22 years old and in various price ranges from $100 to almost $800. The study found a wide variability in emissions from the 21 vacuums. In the end, the study concluded that emissions levels were not directly attributed to price, age or other factors.

Perhaps even more concerning, the researchers found that all of the vacuums they tested emitted a wide range of ultrafine particles, the smallest and more harmful particles in air pollution. Ultrafine particles, defined as those smaller than 0.1 microns in diameter, generally represent about 90 percent of all the pollutants in the air. These tiny particles are small enough to be inhaled and absorbed directly into the bloodstream, and result in increased allergies and asthma, heart attacks, strokes and even cancer.

The study noted that many vacuums not only redistribute ultrafine particles that have settled onto surfaces, but the vacuums generate substantial levels of additional ultrafines particles on their own as a result of using motors with carbon brushes. Past studies have shown that vacuum motors generate ultrafine particles containing copper and carbon. Carbon ultrafine particles can irritate allergies and ultrafine carbon particles can be toxic, the researchers noted.

Meanwhile, the study found that vacuum cleaners can also be a problematic source of bacteria emissions. Vacuum cleaner dust bags can trap and hold live bacteria for up to two months, they said. Vacuum emissions include salmonella and other bacteria that “have potential to spread infectious or sensitizing aerosols,” they concluded.

","vacuum-cleaners-spread-ultrafine-particles-bacteria","gid://shopify/Article/606878761259","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/vacuum-cleaners-spread-ultrafine-particles-bacteria","2016-09-16T21:29:03Z",[390,1146],"Vacuum cleaners spread ultrafine particles, bacteria",{"_10":1310,"_243":1311,"_246":1312,"_248":1154,"_244":1155},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405374861686","vacuum cleaner","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/125_vacuum_desktop_a215b217-ee51-42d2-8acb-ef6c76efa291.webp?v=1748511747",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1314,"_1115":1315,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1316,"_1136":1317,"_985":1318,"_10":1319,"_1140":1320,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1321,"_577":1322,"_541":1323,"_1149":1324},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Allergy sufferers were unconvinced recently when the Canadian government ruled that existing HEPA air purifiers on planes, combined with effective air circulation, adequately protect passengers from cat dander. The government transportation agency ruled that the airlines must also provide those who self-identify as allergy sufferers with at least five rows of separation from onboard cats. But the agency refused an outright prohibition on cats brought aboard airliners, noting that modern airliner cabins have 20-30 air exchanges per hour, a much higher rate than office buildings or homes. In addition, the agency noted that the HEPA air filters on planes are effective at removing 99.97 percent of all particles that pass through them.The case in Canada points out just how touchy the issue of cat dander can be for allergy sufferers. As many as 36 percent of all American homes have at least one cat, according to surveys, and as many as 10 million Americans suffer from allergies to cat dander. More than twice as many Americans are allergic to cats as to dogs. Those allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms, from runny noses and sneezing to extreme asthma attacks and hospitalization or even death. Chest X-rays of people exposed to cat dander show that the dander can cause nodules to form in the lungs, reducing lung function and causing permanent lung damage as a result of long-term exposure. So when it comes to cats and allergies, emotions can run at high speed.Allergic reactions caused by cats is mostly the effect of cat dander, not cat hair. The dander is old skin scales that have flaked off and become airborne. Even in homes where there are no cats there can be cat dander, because it’s carried in on clothing. And if you have moved into a home where a pet has lived, it can take a year or more until the pet dander present there will lose its potency.Of course, cat dander can’t irritate your respiratory system unless you breathe it in, and that it means it must be airborne. Unfortunately, cat dander is so light and small that it easily becomes airborne. About 75 percent of cat dander particles are 5 to 10 microns in diameter – far smaller than the diameter of a single human hair. But about 25 percent of cat dander particles floating in the air are smaller than 2.5 microns. They rarely settle down on surfaces and, even when they do, they are easily relaunched into the air.There is a solution. A high-performance air purifier such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus with HyperHEPA filtration can clear almost all (in many cases,all!) of the cat dander from indoor air. “Since cat allergen is so difficult to remove, a good HEPA air purifier is essential,” says one expert website. Most agree – a HEPA air purifier will often completely eliminate the allergic symptoms that cat owners with allergies are contending with. That means a house can be a happy home for both cats and their owners alike.","

Allergy sufferers were unconvinced recently when the Canadian government ruled that existing HEPA air purifiers on planes, combined with effective air circulation, adequately protect passengers from cat dander. The government transportation agency ruled that the airlines must also provide those who self-identify as allergy sufferers with at least five rows of separation from onboard cats. But the agency refused an outright prohibition on cats brought aboard airliners, noting that modern airliner cabins have 20-30 air exchanges per hour, a much higher rate than office buildings or homes. In addition, the agency noted that the HEPA air filters on planes are effective at removing 99.97 percent of all particles that pass through them.

The case in Canada points out just how touchy the issue of cat dander can be for allergy sufferers. As many as 36 percent of all American homes have at least one cat, according to surveys, and as many as 10 million Americans suffer from allergies to cat dander. More than twice as many Americans are allergic to cats as to dogs. Those allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms, from runny noses and sneezing to extreme asthma attacks and hospitalization or even death. Chest X-rays of people exposed to cat dander show that the dander can cause nodules to form in the lungs, reducing lung function and causing permanent lung damage as a result of long-term exposure. So when it comes to cats and allergies, emotions can run at high speed.

Allergic reactions caused by cats is mostly the effect of cat dander, not cat hair. The dander is old skin scales that have flaked off and become airborne. Even in homes where there are no cats there can be cat dander, because it’s carried in on clothing. And if you have moved into a home where a pet has lived, it can take a year or more until the pet dander present there will lose its potency.

Of course, cat dander can’t irritate your respiratory system unless you breathe it in, and that it means it must be airborne. Unfortunately, cat dander is so light and small that it easily becomes airborne. About 75 percent of cat dander particles are 5 to 10 microns in diameter – far smaller than the diameter of a single human hair. But about 25 percent of cat dander particles floating in the air are smaller than 2.5 microns. They rarely settle down on surfaces and, even when they do, they are easily relaunched into the air.

There is a solution. A high-performance air purifier such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus with HyperHEPA filtration can clear almost all (in many cases,all!) of the cat dander from indoor air. “Since cat allergen is so difficult to remove, a good HEPA air purifier is essential,” says one expert website. Most agree – a HEPA air purifier will often completely eliminate the allergic symptoms that cat owners with allergies are contending with. That means a house can be a happy home for both cats and their owners alike.

","hepa-hyperhepa-air-purifiers-pass-cat-test","gid://shopify/Article/606878531883","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/hepa-hyperhepa-air-purifiers-pass-cat-test","2016-09-16T21:00:39Z",[1146,1292],"HEPA air purifiers pass the cat test",{"_10":1325,"_243":1326,"_246":1327,"_248":1154,"_244":1155},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405502132598","cat on floor","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/117_cat_desktop.webp?v=1748946147","pageInfo",{"_1330":53,"_1331":53,"_1332":1333,"_1334":1335},"hasPreviousPage","hasNextPage","endCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo2MDY4Nzg1MzE4ODMsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE0NzQwNTk2MzkwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6NTl9","startCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo2MDY4ODAyNjg1ODcsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE0NzQzMTEyODMwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6NDh9","selectedTag","Allergies And Asthma",{"_541":1339,"_983":43,"_246":987,"_988":1340},"IQAir News - Allergies And Asthma",{"_990":991,"_992":1341,"_12":1339,"_983":43,"_246":987},"Blog","categorizedArticles",{"_1344":1345,"_1382":1383,"_1484":1485,"_1551":1552,"_1621":1622},"featured",[1346,1365],{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1347,"_1115":1348,"_1131":1349,"_1133":1350,"_1134":1351,"_1136":1352,"_985":1353,"_10":1354,"_1140":1355,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1356,"_577":1357,"_541":1359,"_1149":1360},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"See how Cameroon’s campus-based air quality monitoring is helping students, teachers, and communities make invisible pollution visible.","

See how Cameroon’s campus-based air quality monitoring is helping students, teachers, and communities make invisible pollution visible.

","In Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, students at Franky Comprehensive Secondary School now have access to something most schools in the country have never had before: real-time air quality data from their own campus. Franky Comprehensive Secondary School is home to Cameroon’s first campus-based real-time air quality monitoring station. This is an important step in a country where public access to pollution data has long been limited. At the time of installation, the station was among a small number of sites in Cameroon providing real-time air quality data—and the first to be installed on a school campus. Why a school was the right place to begin Air pollution is often discussed at the level of cities, countries, or global health reports. But for children, it is also deeply local. It affects the air they breathe on the way to school, during outdoor activities, and throughout the school day. That local reality is one reason the project began on a campus. The installation was carried out through a partnership involving Franky Comprehensive Secondary School and Global Youth Strategy on Air Pollution and Climate Health (GYS). According to Elvis Ndikum, founder and chair of GYS, schools are one of the most effective places to build long-term public awareness around respiratory health. Discussing asthma prevalence among adolescents, he points to air pollution as an environmental hazard that is often overlooked, even though children are especially vulnerable to its effects. Turning invisible pollution into something students can see The AirVisual Outdoor monitor installed at Franky Comprehensive Secondary School provides real-time measurements of PM2.5, PM10, PM1, temperature, and humidity. The campus’s station profile data can be viewed online on IQAir’s live air quality map and mobile app, allowing students, staff, families, and the wider community to follow local air conditions throughout the day. That kind of visibility changes the role air quality plays in school and community life. When students see PM2.5 levels rise on hazy days and drop again after rainfall, air pollution stops being abstract. It becomes something observable and immediate—something that helps explain why some days feel different than others, and why health protection might need to change with conditions. For many students, this may be the first time local air quality has felt tangible. It also creates a local baseline of publicly visible air quality data—something that can support awareness now and stronger health and policy conversations over time. Filling a major monitoring gap in Cameroon Cameroon has a population of roughly 29 million people, yet public access to real-time air quality monitoring has historically been very limited. That makes it harder for communities to understand exposure risks, for researchers to build evidence, and for decision-makers to respond effectively. In that context, the new campus station is significant far beyond the school itself. It adds a new source of publicly visible data in a country where monitoring coverage remains sparse—and where limited data can make pollution risks harder to quantify and address. The project shows how local organizations and educational institutions can help close critical data gaps—not only by hosting equipment, but by making air quality part of community awareness. In doing so, the project helps build a stronger culture of attention around air quality and respiratory health. The local partnership driving the project The project’s strength lies in its core collaborative partnership. GYS helps position air pollution not just as an environmental topic, but as a youth and public-health issue. Franky Comprehensive Secondary School provides a place where monitoring can directly support awareness, learning, and daily decision-making. Together, they have created a model that shows what school-based air quality visibility can look like in practice, connecting local public-health awareness with broader efforts to expand access to air quality data. A first step with wider meaning The station at Franky Comprehensive Secondary School is an important first step, but its significance lies in what it could lead to next. As more schools gain access to monitoring, the benefits can extend outward: stronger awareness, more localized data, better public understanding, and a clearer picture of air quality over time. For Cameroon, this project shows that even a single campus installation can begin to shift how communities understand the air around them. That matters because the first step in responding to air pollution is often the same everywhere: making local conditions visible. Conclusion Cameroon’s first campus air quality monitor shows how local leadership can turn air pollution from an unseen risk into something communities can observe, understand, and respond to. The installation is part of IQAir’s Schools4Earth initiative to expand access to air quality monitoring in educational communities. Through Schools4Earth, IQAir supports school-based monitoring projects that help students and teachers understand local air quality conditions while contributing to broader public visibility. In Cameroon, that framework helped support a project already rooted in local health awareness and community engagement. At Franky Comprehensive Secondary School, students and teachers now have access to real-time air quality information in a setting where that knowledge can shape awareness early and locally. The project highlights the role schools can play not only in education, but also in building the public-health visibility that stronger air quality action requires.","

In Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, students at Franky Comprehensive Secondary School now have access to something most schools in the country have never had before: real-time air quality data from their own campus.

Franky Comprehensive Secondary School is home to Cameroon’s first campus-based real-time air quality monitoring station. This is an important step in a country where public access to pollution data has long been limited. At the time of installation, the station was among a small number of sites in Cameroon providing real-time air quality data—and the first to be installed on a school campus.

Why a school was the right place to begin

Air pollution is often discussed at the level of cities, countries, or global health reports. But for children, it is also deeply local. It affects the air they breathe on the way to school, during outdoor activities, and throughout the school day. That local reality is one reason the project began on a campus.

The installation was carried out through a partnership involving Franky Comprehensive Secondary School and Global Youth Strategy on Air Pollution and Climate Health (GYS).

According to Elvis Ndikum, founder and chair of GYS, schools are one of the most effective places to build long-term public awareness around respiratory health. Discussing asthma prevalence among adolescents, he points to air pollution as an environmental hazard that is often overlooked, even though children are especially vulnerable to its effects.

Turning invisible pollution into something students can see

The AirVisual Outdoor monitor installed at Franky Comprehensive Secondary School provides real-time measurements of PM2.5, PM10, PM1, temperature, and humidity.

The campus’s station profile data can be viewed online on IQAir’s live air quality map and mobile app, allowing students, staff, families, and the wider community to follow local air conditions throughout the day.

That kind of visibility changes the role air quality plays in school and community life. When students see PM2.5 levels rise on hazy days and drop again after rainfall, air pollution stops being abstract. It becomes something observable and immediate—something that helps explain why some days feel different than others, and why health protection might need to change with conditions.

For many students, this may be the first time local air quality has felt tangible. It also creates a local baseline of publicly visible air quality data—something that can support awareness now and stronger health and policy conversations over time.

Filling a major monitoring gap in Cameroon

Cameroon has a population of roughly 29 million people, yet public access to real-time air quality monitoring has historically been very limited. That makes it harder for communities to understand exposure risks, for researchers to build evidence, and for decision-makers to respond effectively.

In that context, the new campus station is significant far beyond the school itself. It adds a new source of publicly visible data in a country where monitoring coverage remains sparse—and where limited data can make pollution risks harder to quantify and address.

The project shows how local organizations and educational institutions can help close critical data gaps—not only by hosting equipment, but by making air quality part of community awareness. In doing so, the project helps build a stronger culture of attention around air quality and respiratory health.

The local partnership driving the project

The project’s strength lies in its core collaborative partnership. GYS helps position air pollution not just as an environmental topic, but as a youth and public-health issue. Franky Comprehensive Secondary School provides a place where monitoring can directly support awareness, learning, and daily decision-making. Together, they have created a model that shows what school-based air quality visibility can look like in practice, connecting local public-health awareness with broader efforts to expand access to air quality data.

A first step with wider meaning

The station at Franky Comprehensive Secondary School is an important first step, but its significance lies in what it could lead to next.

As more schools gain access to monitoring, the benefits can extend outward: stronger awareness, more localized data, better public understanding, and a clearer picture of air quality over time. For Cameroon, this project shows that even a single campus installation can begin to shift how communities understand the air around them.

That matters because the first step in responding to air pollution is often the same everywhere: making local conditions visible.

Conclusion

Cameroon’s first campus air quality monitor shows how local leadership can turn air pollution from an unseen risk into something communities can observe, understand, and respond to.

The installation is part of IQAir’s Schools4Earth initiative to expand access to air quality monitoring in educational communities. Through Schools4Earth, IQAir supports school-based monitoring projects that help students and teachers understand local air quality conditions while contributing to broader public visibility. In Cameroon, that framework helped support a project already rooted in local health awareness and community engagement.

At Franky Comprehensive Secondary School, students and teachers now have access to real-time air quality information in a setting where that knowledge can shape awareness early and locally. The project highlights the role schools can play not only in education, but also in building the public-health visibility that stronger air quality action requires.

","revealing-the-invisible-campus-air-quality-monitoring-cameroon","gid://shopify/Article/1000900952438","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-campus-air-quality-monitoring-cameroon","2026-04-22T17:38:02Z",[643,1358,648],"Featured articles","Revealing the Invisible: Campus air quality monitoring in Cameroon",{"_10":1361,"_243":-5,"_246":1362,"_248":1363,"_244":1364},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414739464566","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/A_88a6fab2-72f4-4a7d-89e3-e1e4587baadc.jpg?v=1776879489",839,674,{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1366,"_1115":1367,"_1131":1368,"_1133":1369,"_1134":1370,"_1136":1371,"_985":1372,"_10":1373,"_1140":1374,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1375,"_577":1376,"_541":1377,"_1149":1378},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Find out whether running an air purifier all day is necessary, safe, and worth it for cleaner indoor air.","

Find out whether running an air purifier all day is necessary, safe, and worth it for cleaner indoor air.

","In most cases, yes. If your goal is to reduce all and any exposure to air pollution, running an air purifier throughout the day is the most effective approach. That’s because indoor air pollution is not a one-time event. Dust settles and gets stirred up again, cooking releases particles and gases, outdoor pollution seeps indoors, and people and pets continuously add new pollutants to the air. Running your air purifier continuously is one of the most effective ways to reduce many common airborne pollutants, including dust, allergens, smoke particles, some airborne microbes carried in droplets or aerosols, and—if the purifier includes the right gas-phase media—certain odors and VOCs. Modern air purifiers are generally designed for continuous operation. Many models also include quieter settings, automatic modes, or smart sensors that help balance air cleaning with energy use and noise. Why continuous operation is best for air quality Indoor air can contain higher concentrations of pollutants than outdoor air, due to poor ventilation, off-gassing from furniture and cleaning products, pet dander, and outdoor pollution seeping indoors. Even after you clean a room once, new pollutants keep entering and forming—so turning a purifier off for long stretches often means you’re letting the room “reload.” Unlike intermittent use, which allows pollutants to accumulate between cycles, all-day operation ensures that contaminants like PM2.5 – particulate matter measuring 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller – are constantly filtered out, providing consistent protection. This is especially true in urban areas, near busy roads, or during wildfire and high-pollution events. Energy, noise, and maintenance considerations Running an air purifier all day does use electricity, but many modern units are designed to do so efficiently—especially on lower or auto settings. In real life, operating cost depends on the model, fan speed, and how many hours per day it runs. Noise also matters. Most high-quality purifiers are quiet enough for everyday use on lower settings, which is why many people run them continuously in bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices. During smoke events or high-pollution periods, a higher fan speed may be worth the extra sound because it helps reduce particle levels more quickly. Continuous use can also mean filters load faster. That’s normal. The tradeoff is straightforward: more run time usually means cleaner air, but also more consistent maintenance. The best approach is to follow the manufacturer’s replacement guidance or filter-life indicator rather than guessing. When you might adjust your approach While all-day use is ideal, there are a few scenarios where you might adjust: Low-pollution periods: If outdoor air quality is excellent and your home is well-ventilated, you can run the purifier intermittently or use an automated mode to conserve energy. Unoccupied rooms: If a room is rarely used, you can turn the purifier off or set it to a lower fan speed. Budget constraints: If energy use is a concern, prioritize the rooms where you spend the most time—especially bedrooms and main living spaces—and use lower or automatic settings when pollution levels are lower. Best practices for all-day air purifier use For best results, place your air purifier where air can move freely around it and avoid blocking it with furniture or walls. In bedrooms, many people prefer to place the unit a few feet from the bed, so the airflow isn’t directed straight at them. If your air purifier has an automatic or smart mode, use it. These settings can raise fan speed when pollution increases and lower it when air is cleaner, helping balance performance, noise, and energy use. During wildfire smoke or heavy outdoor pollution, keep windows and doors closed so you’re not constantly pulling new contaminants into the room. And to maintain performance over time, replace filters according to the manufacturer’s guidance or the system’s filter-life indicator. Frequently Asked Questions Is it safe to run an air purifier all day?Yes, most modern filtration-based air purifiers are designed for continuous operation. Choose a model that does not intentionally generate ozone, keep airflow unobstructed, and follow routine maintenance guidance to keep performance steady. Will running an air purifier all day increase my electricity bill?The impact is usually minimal. Energy-efficient air purifiers often cost only a few dollars per month to run continuously, and automatic or smart modes can further reduce energy use by lowering fan speed as needed. Can I run an air purifier in my bedroom overnight?Yes. Many people run air purifiers overnight, often on a lower or quieter setting. Place the unit a few feet from the bed to avoid direct airflow and minimize noise disruption. Do I need to run an air purifier if I have good ventilation?Even with good ventilation, indoor air can still contain pollutants from cooking, cleaning, pets, and outdoor sources. An air purifier adds an extra layer of protection, especially in urban or high-traffic areas. Conclusion If you want your indoor air to stay cleaner, it usually makes sense to leave your air purifier on throughout the day. Indoor pollution is constantly entering, forming, and being stirred back into the air—even when a room looks clean. For most households, the best strategy is simple: run the purifier consistently, place it well, maintain the filters, and increase fan speed during smoke, traffic, or other high-pollution periods. Clean air is easiest to maintain when you treat it as an ongoing condition—not a one-time fix.","

In most cases, yes. If your goal is to reduce all and any exposure to air pollution, running an air purifier throughout the day is the most effective approach.

That’s because indoor air pollution is not a one-time event. Dust settles and gets stirred up again, cooking releases particles and gases, outdoor pollution seeps indoors, and people and pets continuously add new pollutants to the air. Running your air purifier continuously is one of the most effective ways to reduce many common airborne pollutants, including dust, allergens, smoke particles, some airborne microbes carried in droplets or aerosols, and—if the purifier includes the right gas-phase media—certain odors and VOCs.

Modern air purifiers are generally designed for continuous operation. Many models also include quieter settings, automatic modes, or smart sensors that help balance air cleaning with energy use and noise.

Why continuous operation is best for air quality

Indoor air can contain higher concentrations of pollutants than outdoor air, due to poor ventilation, off-gassing from furniture and cleaning products, pet dander, and outdoor pollution seeping indoors. Even after you clean a room once, new pollutants keep entering and forming—so turning a purifier off for long stretches often means you’re letting the room “reload.”

Unlike intermittent use, which allows pollutants to accumulate between cycles, all-day operation ensures that contaminants like PM2.5 – particulate matter measuring 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller – are constantly filtered out, providing consistent protection. This is especially true in urban areas, near busy roads, or during wildfire and high-pollution events.

Energy, noise, and maintenance considerations

Running an air purifier all day does use electricity, but many modern units are designed to do so efficiently—especially on lower or auto settings. In real life, operating cost depends on the model, fan speed, and how many hours per day it runs.

Noise also matters. Most high-quality purifiers are quiet enough for everyday use on lower settings, which is why many people run them continuously in bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices. During smoke events or high-pollution periods, a higher fan speed may be worth the extra sound because it helps reduce particle levels more quickly.

Continuous use can also mean filters load faster. That’s normal. The tradeoff is straightforward: more run time usually means cleaner air, but also more consistent maintenance. The best approach is to follow the manufacturer’s replacement guidance or filter-life indicator rather than guessing.

When you might adjust your approach

While all-day use is ideal, there are a few scenarios where you might adjust:

\nLow-pollution periods: If outdoor air quality is excellent and your home is well-ventilated, you can run the purifier intermittently or use an automated mode to conserve energy.
\nUnoccupied rooms: If a room is rarely used, you can turn the purifier off or set it to a lower fan speed.
\nBudget constraints: If energy use is a concern, prioritize the rooms where you spend the most time—especially bedrooms and main living spaces—and use lower or automatic settings when pollution levels are lower.
\n

Best practices for all-day air purifier use

For best results, place your air purifier where air can move freely around it and avoid blocking it with furniture or walls. In bedrooms, many people prefer to place the unit a few feet from the bed, so the airflow isn’t directed straight at them.

If your air purifier has an automatic or smart mode, use it. These settings can raise fan speed when pollution increases and lower it when air is cleaner, helping balance performance, noise, and energy use.

During wildfire smoke or heavy outdoor pollution, keep windows and doors closed so you’re not constantly pulling new contaminants into the room. And to maintain performance over time, replace filters according to the manufacturer’s guidance or the system’s filter-life indicator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to run an air purifier all day?
Yes, most modern filtration-based air purifiers are designed for continuous operation. Choose a model that does not intentionally generate ozone, keep airflow unobstructed, and follow routine maintenance guidance to keep performance steady.

Will running an air purifier all day increase my electricity bill?
The impact is usually minimal. Energy-efficient air purifiers often cost only a few dollars per month to run continuously, and automatic or smart modes can further reduce energy use by lowering fan speed as needed.

Can I run an air purifier in my bedroom overnight?
Yes. Many people run air purifiers overnight, often on a lower or quieter setting. Place the unit a few feet from the bed to avoid direct airflow and minimize noise disruption.

Do I need to run an air purifier if I have good ventilation?
Even with good ventilation, indoor air can still contain pollutants from cooking, cleaning, pets, and outdoor sources. An air purifier adds an extra layer of protection, especially in urban or high-traffic areas.

Conclusion

If you want your indoor air to stay cleaner, it usually makes sense to leave your air purifier on throughout the day. Indoor pollution is constantly entering, forming, and being stirred back into the air—even when a room looks clean.

For most households, the best strategy is simple: run the purifier consistently, place it well, maintain the filters, and increase fan speed during smoke, traffic, or other high-pollution periods. Clean air is easiest to maintain when you treat it as an ongoing condition—not a one-time fix.

","should-you-leave-an-air-purifier-on-all-day","gid://shopify/Article/1000802746742","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/should-you-leave-an-air-purifier-on-all-day","2026-04-21T06:00:00Z",[853,1358],"Should you leave an air purifier on all day?",{"_10":1379,"_243":1380,"_246":1381,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414733304182","Air purifer in living room","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/ShouldYouLeaveAirPurifierOn_Desk_3056c115-415f-48a5-a861-e48d89427895.jpg?v=1776870059","latest",[1384,1401,1418,1434,1451,1468],{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1385,"_1115":1386,"_1131":1387,"_1133":1388,"_1134":1389,"_1136":1390,"_985":1391,"_10":1392,"_1140":1393,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1394,"_577":1395,"_541":1397,"_1149":1398},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Wildfires spread across Brantley County in Georgia, burning structures and causing road closures. Learn more about what is causing the Georgia wildfires.","

Wildfires spread across Brantley County in Georgia, burning structures and causing road closures. Learn more about what is causing the Georgia wildfires.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? On April 24, 2026, the Brantley Highway 82 Fire is burning in southeastern region of Georgia, neighboring the northern Florida border. The fire is located just off U.S. Highway 82 near the Brantley County line, bordering Glynn County and spreading into Camden County (1)(2). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The Brantley Highway 82 wildfire has spread across multiple highways, neighborhoods, and communities, including (3)(4): Atkinson Waynesville Happy Hollow U.S. Highway 82 area, from Nahunta to Post Road Highway 110 West, near Camden County line Highway 259, near Camden County line What is the current containment status of the Brantley Highway 82 Fire? On April 24, 2026, the Brantley Highway 82 Fires has burned approximately 7,567 acres and is about 15% contained. Brantley County, Glynn County, and Effingham County Fire Rescue teams have been working together to contain the wildfire and stop the spread to neighboring communities. Glynn County issued a temporary outdoor burn ban, prohibiting outdoor fires ignited by residents such as fireworks and bonfire pits, to prevent additional wildfires (5)(6). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Mandatory evacuation orders for several neighborhoods and communities have been issued all throughout Brantley County, including Happy Hollow, Hawks Landing, and Drury Court. Those needing to evacuate are directed to use Highway 32 for safety. Various neighboring cities are on wildfire watch as winds continue to carry smoke throughout the state. On April 22, 2026, all Brantley County schools were closed due to the wildfire breaching containment. Shelters are open to the public through various churches in the Nahunta and Hortense region, providing food and water to locals in need. Residents in neighboring cities on wildfire watch alert are advised to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and monitor fire updates and alerts (7). How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. On April 24, 2026, this fire is 15% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

On April 24, 2026, the Brantley Highway 82 Fire is burning in southeastern region of Georgia, neighboring the northern Florida border.

The fire is located just off U.S. Highway 82 near the Brantley County line, bordering Glynn County and spreading into Camden County (1)(2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The Brantley Highway 82 wildfire has spread across multiple highways, neighborhoods, and communities, including (3)(4):

Atkinson
Waynesville
Happy Hollow
U.S. Highway 82 area, from Nahunta to Post Road
Highway 110 West, near Camden County line
Highway 259, near Camden County line

What is the current containment status of the Brantley Highway 82 Fire?

On April 24, 2026, the Brantley Highway 82 Fires has burned approximately 7,567 acres and is about 15% contained.

Brantley County, Glynn County, and Effingham County Fire Rescue teams have been working together to contain the wildfire and stop the spread to neighboring communities. Glynn County issued a temporary outdoor burn ban, prohibiting outdoor fires ignited by residents such as fireworks and bonfire pits, to prevent additional wildfires (5)(6).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Mandatory evacuation orders for several neighborhoods and communities have been issued all throughout Brantley County, including Happy Hollow, Hawks Landing, and Drury Court. Those needing to evacuate are directed to use Highway 32 for safety. Various neighboring cities are on wildfire watch as winds continue to carry smoke throughout the state.

On April 22, 2026, all Brantley County schools were closed due to the wildfire breaching containment. Shelters are open to the public through various churches in the Nahunta and Hortense region, providing food and water to locals in need. Residents in neighboring cities on wildfire watch alert are advised to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and monitor fire updates and alerts (7).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

On April 24, 2026, this fire is 15% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-brantley-highway-82-fire-georgia","gid://shopify/Article/1001165488502","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-brantley-highway-82-fire-georgia","2026-04-24T14:30:39Z",[390,638,1396],"Wildfires","Wildfire Map Spotlight: Brantley Highway 82 Fire, Georgia",{"_10":1399,"_243":-5,"_246":1400,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414818664822","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire2Desktop_a1a81ad2-9e56-4c3c-bae2-aa589175f7ed.jpg?v=1777041247",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1402,"_1115":1403,"_1131":1404,"_1133":1405,"_1134":1406,"_1136":1407,"_985":1408,"_10":1409,"_1140":1410,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1411,"_577":1412,"_541":1413,"_1149":1414},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Find out more about the Pressey Fire burning near Oconto in central Nebraska, including affected areas, containment efforts, and emergency updates.","

Find out more about the Pressey Fire burning near Oconto in central Nebraska, including affected areas, containment efforts, and emergency updates.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of April 24, 2026, the Pressey Fire is active in Pressey Park near Oconto in Custer County, Nebraska. The fire is located north of Oconto along Highway 21 in central Nebraska and has impacted areas surrounding Pressey Park. Emergency crews remain focused on protecting nearby communities, property, and critical infrastructure as firefighting operations continue (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Pressey Fire include: Custer County Oconto Pressey Park Surrounding areas along Highway 21 What is the current containment status of the Pressey Fire? As of April 24, 2026, the Pressey Fire remains at 0% containment and has burned 8,953 acres. More than 130 personnel are actively working around the clock to contain the fire, with additional resources continuing to arrive. Support efforts include two Nebraska Army National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters conducting bucket drops, along with a National Guard hand crew assisting firefighters on the ground (2). Officials also reported that one home and several outbuildings have been destroyed, while the cause of the wildfire remains under investigation (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? No evacuation orders have been issued, but officials are strongly urging residents and visitors to avoid the Pressey Park area near Oconto to allow emergency responders to safely continue firefighting operations. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of April 24, 2026, this fire is 0% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of April 24, 2026, the Pressey Fire is active in Pressey Park near Oconto in Custer County, Nebraska. The fire is located north of Oconto along Highway 21 in central Nebraska and has impacted areas surrounding Pressey Park.

Emergency crews remain focused on protecting nearby communities, property, and critical infrastructure as firefighting operations continue (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Pressey Fire include:

Custer County
Oconto
Pressey Park
Surrounding areas along Highway 21

What is the current containment status of the Pressey Fire?

As of April 24, 2026, the Pressey Fire remains at 0% containment and has burned 8,953 acres.

More than 130 personnel are actively working around the clock to contain the fire, with additional resources continuing to arrive. Support efforts include two Nebraska Army National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters conducting bucket drops, along with a National Guard hand crew assisting firefighters on the ground (2).

Officials also reported that one home and several outbuildings have been destroyed, while the cause of the wildfire remains under investigation (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

No evacuation orders have been issued, but officials are strongly urging residents and visitors to avoid the Pressey Park area near Oconto to allow emergency responders to safely continue firefighting operations.

\n\n

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of April 24, 2026, this fire is 0% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-pressey-fire-central-nebraska","gid://shopify/Article/1001196618102","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-pressey-fire-central-nebraska","2026-04-24T10:40:51Z",[390,638,663,1396],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Pressey Fire, Central Nebraska",{"_10":1415,"_243":1416,"_246":1417,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414807687542","massive wildfire spreading through a forest","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire1Desktop_3a9a8879-4919-4a46-9079-6e33ce45802d.jpg?v=1777027763",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1419,"_1115":1420,"_1131":1421,"_1133":1422,"_1134":1423,"_1136":1424,"_985":1425,"_10":1426,"_1140":1427,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1428,"_577":1429,"_541":1430,"_1149":1431},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Southeast Asia grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

Southeast Asia grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in Southeast Asia? On April 24, 2026, air quality across Southeast Asia remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 5:00 PM (local time, UTC+7), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain variable, Southeast Asia’s average PM2.5 levels in 2025 continued to exceed WHO guidelines across the region. Indonesia recorded around 30 µg/m³, about six times the guideline, while Vietnam reached 29.7 µg/m³, or 5.9 times higher. Myanmar and Laos measured 4.7 and 4.5 times the limit, respectively, while Thailand and Cambodia were each about 3.6 times above, underscoring persistent regional air quality challenges. Air quality map of Southeast Asia and neighboring countries as of 5:00 PM (local time) on April 24, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Southeast Asia? As of April 24, 2026, several major cities across Southeast Asia are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Chiang Mai, Thailand Chiang Rai, Thailand Lampang, Thailand Luang Prabang, Laos Phitsanulok, Thailand Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Southeast Asia air quality map. Chiang Mai ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 5:00 PM (local time) on April 24, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will air quality improve in Southeast Asia? Conditions usually begin to improve in late April as weather patterns shift and the rainy season approaches, with rainfall and increased atmospheric mixing helping to disperse smoke particles and reduce PM2.5 concentrations. By Songkran in mid-April, air quality in northern Thailand typically clears, though the pattern of \"fine one day, hazardous the next\" persists until monsoon rains provide more sustained relief. For maritime Southeast Asia, the dry season runs through October, meaning improvement there depends on the onset of the northeast monsoon. Lasting regional progress requires coordinated cross-border emission controls and a transition away from open burning practices (1). What is causing poor air quality in Southeast Asia? Southeast Asia experiences two distinct burning seasons each year, with mainland countries including Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam affected from November through May, while more equatorial maritime nations including Indonesia and Malaysia face peak fire activity from June through October (2).; Biomass burning accounts for approximately 48% of annual average PM2.5 concentrations across mainland Southeast Asia, with forest fires, shrubland fires, and crop residue burning peaking in March when monthly average PM2.5 reaches 45 µg/m³. Indonesia is the major contributor to transboundary haze across the region, as combustion of biomass and organic peat soil generates large volumes of carbonaceous fine particles that are carried by prevailing winds into Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and neighboring countries. Urban sources including vehicle emissions, coal-fired power generation, and industrial activity add to the pollution burden year-round (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Southeast Asia?

On April 24, 2026, air quality across Southeast Asia remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 5:00 PM (local time, UTC+7), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain variable, Southeast Asia’s average PM2.5 levels in 2025 continued to exceed WHO guidelines across the region. Indonesia recorded around 30 µg/m³, about six times the guideline, while Vietnam reached 29.7 µg/m³, or 5.9 times higher. Myanmar and Laos measured 4.7 and 4.5 times the limit, respectively, while Thailand and Cambodia were each about 3.6 times above, underscoring persistent regional air quality challenges.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Southeast Asia and neighboring countries as of 5:00 PM (local time) on April 24, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Southeast Asia?

As of April 24, 2026, several major cities across Southeast Asia are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

\nChiang Mai, Thailand
\nChiang Rai, Thailand
\nLampang, Thailand
\nLuang Prabang, Laos
\nPhitsanulok, Thailand

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Southeast Asia air quality map.

$\"\"$ Chiang Mai ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 5:00 PM (local time) on April 24, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will air quality improve in Southeast Asia?

Conditions usually begin to improve in late April as weather patterns shift and the rainy season approaches, with rainfall and increased atmospheric mixing helping to disperse smoke particles and reduce PM2.5 concentrations.

By Songkran in mid-April, air quality in northern Thailand typically clears, though the pattern of \"fine one day, hazardous the next\" persists until monsoon rains provide more sustained relief.

For maritime Southeast Asia, the dry season runs through October, meaning improvement there depends on the onset of the northeast monsoon. Lasting regional progress requires coordinated cross-border emission controls and a transition away from open burning practices (1).

What is causing poor air quality in Southeast Asia?

Southeast Asia experiences two distinct burning seasons each year, with mainland countries including Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam affected from November through May, while more equatorial maritime nations including Indonesia and Malaysia face peak fire activity from June through October (2).;

Biomass burning accounts for approximately 48% of annual average PM2.5 concentrations across mainland Southeast Asia, with forest fires, shrubland fires, and crop residue burning peaking in March when monthly average PM2.5 reaches 45 µg/m³.

Indonesia is the major contributor to transboundary haze across the region, as combustion of biomass and organic peat soil generates large volumes of carbonaceous fine particles that are carried by prevailing winds into Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and neighboring countries. Urban sources including vehicle emissions, coal-fired power generation, and industrial activity add to the pollution burden year-round (3).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","southeast-asia-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/1001100673398","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/southeast-asia-air-quality-alert","2026-04-24T10:11:45Z",[390,638],"Southeast Asia Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1432,"_243":-5,"_246":1433,"_248":1363,"_244":1364},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414805197174","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/SoutheastAsia_Fire_Desk_3c24b03f-de67-4da2-9cc3-c86e58b2da6c.jpg?v=1777025511",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1435,"_1115":1436,"_1131":1437,"_1133":1438,"_1134":1439,"_1136":1440,"_985":1441,"_10":1442,"_1140":1443,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1444,"_577":1445,"_541":1446,"_1149":1447},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Find out more about the Pineland Road Fire and its impact on communities in southern Georgia.","

Find out more about the Pineland Road Fire and its impact on communities in southern Georgia.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of April 23, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire is burning in southern Georgia across Clinch and Echols regions. The fire is located approximately 5 miles west of Colon Road and Mud Camp Pineland Road, near Highway 441 and close to the Suwannee River at the boundary between the two regions (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Pineland Road Fire include: Colon Echols region Fargo Highway area Needmore Regions near Headlight Road Regions near Tiger Lake Road Regions near Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road What is the current containment status of the Pineland Road Fire? As of April 23, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire has burned approximately 30,477 acres and is about 10% contained. Firefighting crews continue suppression efforts under challenging conditions, including drought, low humidity, and strong winds (2). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Evacuation alerts remain in place for residents living near Highway 441 between Headlight Road and Tiger Lake Road, as well as areas east of Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road. While no mandatory evacuation order has been issued, officials have urged residents to stay prepared to leave quickly if conditions worsen. Emergency alerts have advised residents to monitor updates, prepare essential items, and follow instructions from local authorities as fire behavior may shift rapidly (3). How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of April 23, 2026, this fire is 10% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of April 23, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire is burning in southern Georgia across Clinch and Echols regions.

The fire is located approximately 5 miles west of Colon Road and Mud Camp Pineland Road, near Highway 441 and close to the Suwannee River at the boundary between the two regions (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Pineland Road Fire include:

Colon
Echols region
Fargo Highway area
Needmore
Regions near Headlight Road
Regions near Tiger Lake Road
Regions near Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road

What is the current containment status of the Pineland Road Fire?

As of April 23, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire has burned approximately 30,477 acres and is about 10% contained.

Firefighting crews continue suppression efforts under challenging conditions, including drought, low humidity, and strong winds (2).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation alerts remain in place for residents living near Highway 441 between Headlight Road and Tiger Lake Road, as well as areas east of Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road.

While no mandatory evacuation order has been issued, officials have urged residents to stay prepared to leave quickly if conditions worsen.

Emergency alerts have advised residents to monitor updates, prepare essential items, and follow instructions from local authorities as fire behavior may shift rapidly (3).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of April 23, 2026, this fire is 10% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-pineland-road-fire-georgia","gid://shopify/Article/1001134391670","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-pineland-road-fire-georgia","2026-04-23T14:45:46Z",[390,638,663,1396],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Pineland Road Fire, Georgia",{"_10":1448,"_243":1449,"_246":1450,"_248":1363,"_244":1364},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414782783862","Wildfire engulfs a dense forest","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire9Desktop_dcac3133-2442-4e61-a2e3-e93717d6b653.jpg?v=1776955719",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1452,"_1115":1453,"_1131":1454,"_1133":1455,"_1134":1456,"_1136":1457,"_985":1458,"_10":1459,"_1140":1460,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1461,"_577":1462,"_541":1463,"_1149":1464},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Find out more about the extreme heatwave affecting multiple regions across India as temperatures continue to rise across the country.","

Find out more about the extreme heatwave affecting multiple regions across India as temperatures continue to rise across the country.

","Why is there a heatwave in India? As of April 23, 2026, India is experiencing widespread extreme heat across northern, central, and eastern regions, with Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi reporting dangerously high temperatures (1). According to recent reports, 19 of the world’s 20 hottest cities are currently located in India. Among the hardest-hit locations are Bhagalpur in Bihar, Talcher in Odisha, Asansol in West Bengal, and Medinipur in West Bengal. The current heatwave is being fueled by a combination of weather and climate factors. Strong pre-monsoon solar heating is rapidly warming land surfaces. Cloudless skies are also allowing prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Reduced winter snowfall across the Himalayas and parts of Eurasia has also contributed to higher temperatures by reducing natural cooling effects. At the same time, hot and dry northwesterly winds are suppressing rainfall across large parts of the country. Shifting Pacific Ocean patterns and ENSO-neutral conditions are further weakening cooling weather systems, allowing extreme temperatures to persist for longer periods. Areas near the Himalayan region are also experiencing abnormal warming due to reduced snow cover, while eastern plains near Nepal’s Lumbini region are facing similar extreme heat conditions (2). How long will the heatwave last? The current heat event began intensifying after April 20, 2026, as temperatures rose sharply across multiple regions. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heatwave conditions are expected to continue through at least April 26 to April 27 in several states. Some areas may not experience meaningful relief until later in the month as pre-monsoon weather activity increases. Heatwave conditions are expected to persist across: Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana through April 24–25 West Uttar Pradesh through April 23–25 East Uttar Pradesh through April 22–26 Rajasthan through April 24–26 Madhya Pradesh through April 23–26 Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh through April 24–27 Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal through April 22–23 Southern coastal regions, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and coastal Karnataka, are also expected to experience prolonged hot and humid weather conditions (3). Are there any alerts in place? The India Meteorological Department has issued multiple heat-related alerts across affected regions as temperatures continue to rise. Yellow alerts remain in place in several states where heat exposure poses moderate health risks, particularly for children, older adults, and individuals with existing medical conditions. Orange alerts have also been issued in areas facing a higher risk of heat-related illness due to prolonged exposure. Delhi remains under a yellow alert through April 24, while severe heat advisories continue across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and parts of eastern India. At this time, no evacuation orders or emergency shelters have been reported in connection with the heatwave. Health officials are advising residents to take precautions, including staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, wearing lightweight clothing, and recognizing signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Officials have also warned about unusually warm nighttime temperatures in Delhi, Haryana, Odisha, and Konkan. These warmer nights may increase health risks by limiting the body’s ability to recover from prolonged daytime heat exposure (4).","

Why is there a heatwave in India?

As of April 23, 2026, India is experiencing widespread extreme heat across northern, central, and eastern regions, with Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi reporting dangerously high temperatures (1).

According to recent reports, 19 of the world’s 20 hottest cities are currently located in India. Among the hardest-hit locations are Bhagalpur in Bihar, Talcher in Odisha, Asansol in West Bengal, and Medinipur in West Bengal.

The current heatwave is being fueled by a combination of weather and climate factors. Strong pre-monsoon solar heating is rapidly warming land surfaces. Cloudless skies are also allowing prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Reduced winter snowfall across the Himalayas and parts of Eurasia has also contributed to higher temperatures by reducing natural cooling effects. At the same time, hot and dry northwesterly winds are suppressing rainfall across large parts of the country.

Shifting Pacific Ocean patterns and ENSO-neutral conditions are further weakening cooling weather systems, allowing extreme temperatures to persist for longer periods.

Areas near the Himalayan region are also experiencing abnormal warming due to reduced snow cover, while eastern plains near Nepal’s Lumbini region are facing similar extreme heat conditions (2).

How long will the heatwave last?

The current heat event began intensifying after April 20, 2026, as temperatures rose sharply across multiple regions.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heatwave conditions are expected to continue through at least April 26 to April 27 in several states. Some areas may not experience meaningful relief until later in the month as pre-monsoon weather activity increases.

Heatwave conditions are expected to persist across:

\nDelhi, Punjab, and Haryana through April 24–25
West Uttar Pradesh through April 23–25
East Uttar Pradesh through April 22–26
\nRajasthan through April 24–26
\nMadhya Pradesh through April 23–26
Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh through April 24–27
\nBihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal through April 22–23

Southern coastal regions, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and coastal Karnataka, are also expected to experience prolonged hot and humid weather conditions (3).

Are there any alerts in place?

The India Meteorological Department has issued multiple heat-related alerts across affected regions as temperatures continue to rise.

Yellow alerts remain in place in several states where heat exposure poses moderate health risks, particularly for children, older adults, and individuals with existing medical conditions.

Orange alerts have also been issued in areas facing a higher risk of heat-related illness due to prolonged exposure.

Delhi remains under a yellow alert through April 24, while severe heat advisories continue across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and parts of eastern India.

At this time, no evacuation orders or emergency shelters have been reported in connection with the heatwave.

Health officials are advising residents to take precautions, including staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, wearing lightweight clothing, and recognizing signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Officials have also warned about unusually warm nighttime temperatures in Delhi, Haryana, Odisha, and Konkan. These warmer nights may increase health risks by limiting the body’s ability to recover from prolonged daytime heat exposure (4).

","heatwave-map-spotlight-northern-central-and-eastern-india","gid://shopify/Article/1001168863606","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/heatwave-map-spotlight-northern-central-and-eastern-india","2026-04-23T09:16:54Z",[390,638],"Heatwave Map Spotlight: Northern, Central, and Eastern India",{"_10":1465,"_243":1466,"_246":1467,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414755193206","A man wipes sweat from his face under the scorching sun.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Heatwave2Desktop_201f1ef3-3ac0-4fcd-86f6-216c4a5b07b3.jpg?v=1776936733",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1469,"_1115":1470,"_1131":1471,"_1133":1472,"_1134":1473,"_1136":1474,"_985":1475,"_10":1476,"_1140":1477,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1478,"_577":1479,"_541":1480,"_1149":1481},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"China grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

China grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in China? As of April 23, 2026, air quality in China remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 1:30 PM (Chinese Standard Time, GMT+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025. Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 1:30 PM (CST) on April 23, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China? As of April 23, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Aksu Beijing Jinchang Kashgar Lanzhou Puer Yinchuan Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map. Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 1:30 PM (CST) on April 23, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in China? With spring now underway, the end of the coal-fired heating season should bring some relief, as heating-related emissions begin to ease. However, March and April bring their own challenge: this period has the highest frequency of sand and dust weather, with storms primarily originating from Mongolia, capable of spiking PM10 concentrations several fold. More sustained improvement is expected by late April to May, as warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and spring rainfall help disperse pollutants. Lasting progress still depends on continued emission controls and cleaner energy adoption (1). What is causing poor air quality in China? The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emission, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (2). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to frequent dust storms from the Gobi Desert, Taklimakan Desert, and Inner Mongolian Plateau, causing sudden PM10 spikes. Higher temperature and humidity levels rise, and winds contribute to the smog by carrying pollutants from industrialized regions. Resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, and transboundary pollution also contribute. Meteorological conditions favor the mobilization and transport of dust in spring (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in China?

As of April 23, 2026, air quality in China remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 1:30 PM (Chinese Standard Time, GMT+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 1:30 PM (CST) on April 23, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China?

As of April 23, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Aksu
Beijing
Jinchang
Kashgar
Lanzhou
Puer
Yinchuan

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 1:30 PM (CST) on April 23, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in China?

With spring now underway, the end of the coal-fired heating season should bring some relief, as heating-related emissions begin to ease. However, March and April bring their own challenge: this period has the highest frequency of sand and dust weather, with storms primarily originating from Mongolia, capable of spiking PM10 concentrations several fold.

More sustained improvement is expected by late April to May, as warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and spring rainfall help disperse pollutants. Lasting progress still depends on continued emission controls and cleaner energy adoption (1).

What is causing poor air quality in China?

The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emission, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (2).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to frequent dust storms from the Gobi Desert, Taklimakan Desert, and Inner Mongolian Plateau, causing sudden PM10 spikes. Higher temperature and humidity levels rise, and winds contribute to the smog by carrying pollutants from industrialized regions.

Resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, and transboundary pollution also contribute. Meteorological conditions favor the mobilization and transport of dust in spring (3).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","china-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/999656948086","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/china-air-quality-alert","2026-04-23T05:30:23Z",[390,638],"China Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1482,"_243":-5,"_246":1483,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414748639606","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/BeijingDesktop_bc51c3b5-6b87-4b64-b0ee-e36d75f0f16e.jpg?v=1776922227","popular",[1486,1503,1519,1535],{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1487,"_1115":1488,"_1131":1489,"_1133":1489,"_1134":1490,"_1136":1491,"_985":1492,"_10":1493,"_1140":1494,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1495,"_577":1496,"_541":1498,"_1149":1499},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Learn why wildfire smoke poses a health risk to people living far downwind and what you can do to help protect yourself.","When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation. The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation. Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways: by robbing it of oxygen through particulate matter irritation Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.1 Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke. What’s in wildfire smoke? Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire. Wildfire smoke often contains: water vapor particulate matter trace minerals carbon dioxide carbon monoxide nitrogen oxides hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O3) levels volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants) Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body. Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including: the types of wood and vegetation burning the moisture content the fire temperature wind conditions other weather-related influences The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health. Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs. The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body. Clean the air with high-performance air filtration Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers Click here Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:2 Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition. Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population. Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease. Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk. Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.3 The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.4 Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.5 The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition. How wildfire smoke behaves Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as: weather geographical terrain the stage of the fire wind Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you. Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact. Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts. Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.6 Wildfire safety tips Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires. Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires. Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available. Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help. Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants. Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO2 from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire. Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO2, and NO2, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health. Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions. During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air. The takeaway Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source. Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks. By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.","

When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation.

The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.

Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways:

by robbing it of oxygen
through particulate matter irritation

Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.¹

Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke.

What’s in wildfire smoke?

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire.

Wildfire smoke often contains:

\n
water vapor
\n
\n
particulate matter
\n
\n
trace minerals
\n
\n
carbon dioxide
\n
\n
carbon monoxide
\n
\n
nitrogen oxides
\n
\n
hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O₃) levels
\n
\n
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants)
\n

Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body.

$\"What's$

Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir

Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including:

\n
the types of wood and vegetation burning
\n

\n
the moisture content
\n
\n
the fire temperature
\n
\n
wind conditions
\n
\n
other weather-related influences
\n

The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health.

Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs.

The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body.

\n \n

\n\n

Clean the air with high-performance air filtration
Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers

\n\n

Click here

Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations

Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:²

\n
Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition.
\n
\n
Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population.
\n
\n
Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease.
\n
\n
Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk.
\n
\n
Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia.
\n

Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.³

The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.⁴

Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.⁵ The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition.

 Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition.

How wildfire smoke behaves

Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as:

\n
weather
\n
\n
geographical terrain
\n
\n
the stage of the fire
\n
\n
wind
\n

Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you.

$\"placeholder$

Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact.

Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts.

Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.⁶

Wildfire safety tips

Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires.

\n
Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires.
\n
\n
Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available.
\n
\n
Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help.
\n
\n
Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants.
\n
\n
Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO₂ from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire.
\n
\n
Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO₂, and NO₂, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health.
\n

$\"Google$ $\"App$ $\"Android\"$

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air.

The takeaway

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source.

Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks.

By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.

","how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/606869291307","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","2025-07-01T20:46:00Z",[390,638,1497,1396],"Popular articles","How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_10":1500,"_243":1501,"_246":1502,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406601138550","Wildfire at night in hills","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_21_WildfireDesktop_a_790d6d55-874f-4c95-bff8-11655661a476.jpg?v=1752702197",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1504,"_1115":1505,"_1131":1506,"_1133":1506,"_1134":1507,"_1136":1508,"_985":1509,"_10":1510,"_1140":1511,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1512,"_577":1513,"_541":1514,"_1149":1515},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"How can you know what air purifier manufacturers to trust? Let's look more critically at air purification.","The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification. But not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction. What should I look for in an air purifier? Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier. 1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry. What is a HEPA filter? High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market. But it wasn’t always that way. Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1). Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2). HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants. In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3). Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size. 2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal. All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA. To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4). The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5). So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6). Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less. Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media. 3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA. While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air. Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in. How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think: Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen. Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields. Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter). Air passes through the activated carbon bed. Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area. Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8). Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to. The takeaway Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are: HyperHEPA media for particle filtration No system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing Activated carbon for gas and odor filtration But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier. What should I avoid in an air purifier? When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited. But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase. So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health. Ionizer air purifiers Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture. Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10). But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12): Ionizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions. Ionizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations. Verdict Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.” Ozone Generators It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13). Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm. However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18): Ozone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases. Ozone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children. Indoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks. Verdict Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets. UV Light Purifiers Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20). One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI. In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21). But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26): Bacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful. Some bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light. UV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5. Many UV air purifiers produce ozone. UV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer. Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter. Verdict Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated. What do I do now? At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system. So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality: Get a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence. Use advanced gas-phase filtration. Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon. The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration. Use a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere. Install a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality. Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs. The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.","

The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification.

But not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction.

What should I look for in an air purifier?

Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier.

$\"Air$

1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry.

What is a HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market.

But it wasn’t always that way.

Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1).

Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2).

HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants.

In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3).

Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.

The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems.

Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size.

2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal.

All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA.

To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4).

The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5).

So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6).

Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less.

Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media.

3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA.

While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air.

Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in.

How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think:

Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen.
Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields.
Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter).
Air passes through the activated carbon bed.
Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area.

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8).

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes.

Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to.

The takeaway

Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are:

\nHyperHEPA media for particle filtration
\nNo system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing
\nActivated carbon for gas and odor filtration

But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier.

What should I avoid in an air purifier?

When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited.

But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase.

So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health.

Ionizer air purifiers

Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture.

Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10).

But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12):

\nIonizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions.
\nIonizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. \n

Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations.

Verdict

Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.”

Ozone Generators

It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13).

Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm.

However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18):

\nOzone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases.
\nOzone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children.
\nIndoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks.

Verdict

Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets.

UV Light Purifiers

Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20).

One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI.

In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21).

But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26):

\nBacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful.
\nSome bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light.
\nUV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5.
Many UV air purifiers produce ozone.
\nUV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer.

Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter.

Verdict

Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated.

What do I do now?

At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system.

So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality:

\nGet a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence.
\nUse advanced gas-phase filtration.\n
- Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon.
- The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration.
\n
\nUse a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere.
\nInstall a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality.

Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs.

The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.

","do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/606869193003","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","2022-01-02T14:14:32Z",[853,653,1497],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_10":1516,"_243":1517,"_246":1518,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/408358224246","Close-up of what appears to be a room air purifier with some plants in the background (another indoor air purifying tool that has been shown to be ineffective in improving indoor air quality).","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_misconceptions-about-air-purifiers_5058ed72-2e8d-4b0f-9570-93510f9f1f89.jpg?v=1758212336",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1520,"_1115":1521,"_1131":1522,"_1133":1522,"_1134":1523,"_1136":1524,"_985":1525,"_10":1526,"_1140":1527,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1528,"_577":1529,"_541":1530,"_1149":1531},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"They look great on your nightstand, but are they worth their salt as air purifiers? Learn more.","Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?Again, two words: negative ionization.If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.1 Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.2The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O3).There are two main types of ozone: Stratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Tropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke. Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including: Coughing Wheezing Trouble breathing Stuffy nose Dizziness Tingling in arms and legs Fever3,4 Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:5 Stable air temperature Moderate to high humidity Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium Lack of airborne pollutants Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.6Take the claims with a grain of...well, saltSo here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead: Be aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes. Control sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions. Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%. Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites. Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas. Ventilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels. Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good. Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking. Use an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone. Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.","

Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.

These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.

They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.

But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.

A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.

And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.

Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?

Again, two words: negative ionization.

If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.

In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.

This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.¹ Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.

The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.

Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.²

The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.

And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O₃).

There are two main types of ozone:

\nStratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
\nTropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke.

Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.

If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including:

Coughing
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Stuffy nose
Dizziness
Tingling in arms and legs
Fever^3,4\n

Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.

So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.

So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?

So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?

The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.

Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:⁵

Stable air temperature
Moderate to high humidity
Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium
Lack of airborne pollutants

Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.⁶

Take the claims with a grain of...well, salt

So here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.

But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.

You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead:

\nBe aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes.
\nControl sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions.\n\n\t
- Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%.
- Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites.
- Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas.
\n\n\t
\nVentilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels.\n\n\t
- Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good.
- Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking.
\n\n\t
\nUse an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone.

Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.
\n\n

","himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/606869356843","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","2019-06-17T13:49:29Z",[390,653,1497],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_10":1532,"_243":1533,"_246":1534,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406288400758","Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_HimalayanSalt_061419_750_ebdb5244-3cb4-49a7-b887-47de5134ba96.jpg?v=1751543557",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1536,"_1115":1537,"_1131":1538,"_1133":1538,"_1134":1539,"_1136":1540,"_985":1541,"_10":1542,"_1140":1543,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1544,"_577":1545,"_541":1546,"_1149":1547},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Learn more how scented candles release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit — and can harm your health.","Are scented candles bad for you?Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.Paraffin waxAre paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like: alkenes acetone benzene toluene These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).Is burning candles bad for you?In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including: allergies asthma COPD (5) respiratory tract infections heart attacks strokes cancer So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).Chemical fragrancesAnother problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7): formaldehyde petroleum distillates limonene alcohol esters These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as: headaches dizziness allergy symptoms asthma attacks respiratory tract infections cancer Cored wicksMany candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).Safer alternativesTo limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air: Use essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma. Simmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove. Create potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home. The takeawayLighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.","

Are scented candles bad for you?

Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.

Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.

Paraffin wax

Are paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?

According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).

Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like:

alkenes
acetone
benzene
toluene

These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.

A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).

Is burning candles bad for you?

In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).

A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).

Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including:

allergies
asthma
COPD (5)
respiratory tract infections
heart attacks
strokes
cancer

So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).

Chemical fragrances

Another problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7):

formaldehyde
petroleum distillates
limonene
alcohol
esters

These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as:

headaches
dizziness
allergy symptoms
asthma attacks
respiratory tract infections
cancer
\n\n\t

Cored wicks

Many candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.

Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.

All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.

However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).

Safer alternatives

To limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).

If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air:

\nUse essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma.
\nSimmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove.
\nCreate potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home.

The takeaway

Lighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.

","hidden-dangers-scented-candles","gid://shopify/Article/606869127467","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/hidden-dangers-scented-candles","2016-12-04T22:35:53Z",[653,1497],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_10":1548,"_243":1549,"_246":1550,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405721284982","Two lit candles","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/49_scented_desktop_RE_3518d342-9492-4308-82e5-ee4111074a17.jpg?v=1749633010","successStories",[1553,1570,1587,1602],{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1554,"_1115":1555,"_1131":1556,"_1133":1557,"_1134":1558,"_1136":1559,"_985":1560,"_10":1561,"_1140":1562,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1563,"_577":1564,"_541":1565,"_1149":1566},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.","

Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.

","“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.” In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data. Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning. \"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.” “It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.” Local expertise, global resources drive innovation Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight. The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity. The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life. These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa. By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa. The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people. While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives. Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said. Cultivating environmental consciousness Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.” “Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.” Conclusion From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.","

“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.”

In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data.

Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air

In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning.

\"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.”

“It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.”

Local expertise, global resources drive innovation

Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight.

The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity.

The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life.

These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa.

By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa.

The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa

The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report , there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people.

While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.

Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives.

Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow

Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.

The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said.

Cultivating environmental consciousness

Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"

Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.”

“Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.”

Conclusion

From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.

Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.

Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.

","revealing-the-invisible-kenya","gid://shopify/Article/607976751403","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-kenya","2025-12-01T04:00:00Z",[648,838],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_10":1567,"_243":1568,"_246":1569,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/411421278582","Nairobi-city-smog","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_Revamp_Kenya_Clean_Air_Desktop_4f1dd00b-baa3-4e27-9eed-3acd42f2faae.jpg?v=1767630558",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1571,"_1115":1572,"_1131":1573,"_1133":1574,"_1134":1575,"_1136":1576,"_985":1577,"_10":1578,"_1140":1579,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1580,"_577":1581,"_541":1582,"_1149":1583},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.","

WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.

","In Pakistan, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of air quality data, air quality monitors, and public awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen. In 2024, Pakistan was the third most polluted country in the world, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 73.7 μg/m3 and exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 μg/m3 by 14.7 times. Numerous cities experienced poor air quality, with high average PM2.5 concentrations measured for Islamabad (52.4 μg/m3), Rawalpindi (65.8 μg/m3), Faisalabad (88.8 μg/m3), Peshawar (91.0 μg/m3), and Lahore (102.1 μg/m3) – all exceeding the WHO recommended guideline by ten times or more. Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat. \"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan. As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.” Why Pakistan Needs Reliable Air Quality Data Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data. \"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained. WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan. “Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data. With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country. Building Pakistan's National Air Quality Network WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing air quality sensors in key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. By coordinating 15 monitoring stations under one national initiative, WWF-Pakistan now operates the country’s largest organized air quality monitoring network, making real-time data accessible to both citizens and policymakers. Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change. Using Air Quality Data to Combat Pollution in Pakistan With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan. \"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.” Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives. With 18,800 followers across its national network, WWF-Pakistan is sharing that data every day with citizens who urgently need real-time air quality information to help protect themselves from pollution. Pakistan's Long-Term Pollution Solutions WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data. \"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution. The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\" “Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.” In October 2024, WWF-Pakistan warned that Lahore’s air quality posed a terrible threat to public health, recommending a number of changes to government policy including helping farmers manage crop waste, expanding mass transit, and improving zoning laws to reduce industrial pollution away from residents. It also noted that low-cost air quality monitoring systems could be used to uncover air pollution hotspots along traffic routes. Armed with that information, governments could restrict heavy transport vehicles or develop alternate routes to avoid congestion (1). Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 60 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2025 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony. Conclusion WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of air quality data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. And by increasing the footprint of air quality monitors across the country, innovative solutions to persistent pollution problems can be put into play. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters. “This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”","

In Pakistan, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of air quality data, air quality monitors, and public awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen.

In 2024, Pakistan was the third most polluted country in the world, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 73.7 μg/m3 and exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 μg/m3 by 14.7 times. Numerous cities experienced poor air quality, with high average PM2.5 concentrations measured for Islamabad (52.4 μg/m3), Rawalpindi (65.8 μg/m3), Faisalabad (88.8 μg/m3), Peshawar (91.0 μg/m3), and Lahore (102.1 μg/m3) – all exceeding the WHO recommended guideline by ten times or more.

Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat.

\"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan.

As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.”

Why Pakistan Needs Reliable Air Quality Data

Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data.

\"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained.

WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan.

“Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data.

With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country.

Building Pakistan's National Air Quality Network

WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing air quality sensors in key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. By coordinating 15 monitoring stations under one national initiative, WWF-Pakistan now operates the country’s largest organized air quality monitoring network, making real-time data accessible to both citizens and policymakers.

Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change.

Using Air Quality Data to Combat Pollution in Pakistan

With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan.

\"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.”

Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives.

With 18,800 followers across its national network, WWF-Pakistan is sharing that data every day with citizens who urgently need real-time air quality information to help protect themselves from pollution.

Pakistan's Long-Term Pollution Solutions

WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data.

\"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution.

The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\"

“Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.”

In October 2024, WWF-Pakistan warned that Lahore’s air quality posed a terrible threat to public health, recommending a number of changes to government policy including helping farmers manage crop waste, expanding mass transit, and improving zoning laws to reduce industrial pollution away from residents.

It also noted that low-cost air quality monitoring systems could be used to uncover air pollution hotspots along traffic routes. Armed with that information, governments could restrict heavy transport vehicles or develop alternate routes to avoid congestion (1).

Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 60 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2025 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony.

Conclusion

WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of air quality data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. And by increasing the footprint of air quality monitors across the country, innovative solutions to persistent pollution problems can be put into play.

As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters.

“This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”

","revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","gid://shopify/Article/997495079286","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","2025-11-12T17:43:03Z",[643,648,838],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_10":1584,"_243":1585,"_246":1586,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/410126352758","WWF Team standing Next to Solar Panel","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_PakistanContributor_Desk_A_a18d7b5d-29f7-4e70-ad5d-e0c4f15aebc6.jpg?v=1762969386",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1588,"_1115":1589,"_1131":43,"_1133":43,"_1134":1590,"_1136":1591,"_985":1592,"_10":1593,"_1140":1594,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1595,"_577":1596,"_541":1597,"_1149":1598},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors. A vision born from necessity Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted. Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air. “There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.” –Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health The journey of Permian Health Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside. \"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\" Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions. Dr. Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.” “The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.” Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March. Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data. Pioneering work on the ground To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\" This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said. However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues. ‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained. Uniting minds and garnering accolades To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project. A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data. \"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray. This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country. Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors. With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors. Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award underscores the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further. Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment. Hopes for the Future Thanks to their recent Air Quality award, Permian Health acquired an additional 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia. Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed. Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia. “We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.” \"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\" A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan. According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\" \"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network. Conclusion Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders. Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond air quality monitoring; it's about transforming the quality of public health around the world.","

In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors.

A vision born from necessity

Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted.

Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.

\n
“There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”
\n
–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health
\n

The journey of Permian Health

Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside.

\"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\"

Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality

Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions.

$\"\"$

Dr. Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.”

\n
“The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.”
\n

Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March.

Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data.

Pioneering work on the ground

To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\"

This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said.

However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues.

‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained.

Uniting minds and garnering accolades

To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project.

A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data.

\"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray.

This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country.

Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors.

With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors.

Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award underscores the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further.

Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment.

Hopes for the Future

Thanks to their recent Air Quality award, Permian Health acquired an additional 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia.

$\"\"$

Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed.

Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia.

\n
“We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.”
\n

\"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\"

A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan.

According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\"

\"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network.

Conclusion

Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders.

Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond air quality monitoring; it's about transforming the quality of public health around the world.

","permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","gid://shopify/Article/998083264886","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","2025-03-24T10:03:00Z",[643,648,838],"Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s air quality crusade in Gambia",{"_10":1599,"_243":1600,"_246":1601,"_248":1201,"_244":1202},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/407094034806","Man working on pole","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/PermianHealth_Desk_A_82dc4964-aaa3-4053-96ec-1d5218eb3bd9.jpg?v=1754470616",{"_1124":1125,"_1126":1603,"_1115":1604,"_1131":1605,"_1133":1606,"_1134":1607,"_1136":1608,"_985":1609,"_10":1610,"_1140":1611,"_1142":-5,"_1143":1612,"_577":1613,"_541":1614,"_1149":1615},{"_12":1128},{"_985":1130},"A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.","

A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.

","Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region. Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them. Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively. Mission built on compassion Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017. “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.” But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality. Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem. “The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.” There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.” This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes. Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions. Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs. Life changing air cleaning solution Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively. Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’” That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable. The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges. “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared. The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat. Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.” “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.” When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night. Looking ahead For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes. The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens. Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.” Conclusion Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal. For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.","

Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region.

Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them.

Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively.

Mission built on compassion

Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017.

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.”

But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality.

Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue.

Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues

Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem.

“The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.”

There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.”

This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes.

Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions.

Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs.

Life changing air cleaning solution

Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively.

Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’”

That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable.

The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges.

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared.

$\"\"$

The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat.

Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.”

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.”

When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night.

Looking ahead

For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes.

The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens.

Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.”

Conclusion

Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal.

For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.

","cleaner-air-healthier-kittens-iqair-supports-tiny-but-mighty-rescue","gid://shopify/Article/997882986870","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/cleaner-air-healthier-kittens-iqair-supports-tiny-but-mighty-rescue","2025-01-27T04:00:00Z",[1292,838],"Cleaner air, healthier kittens: Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue",{"_10":1616,"_243":1617,"_246":1618,"_248":1619,"_244":1620},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/396322505078","Cat resting next to air purifier.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/KittenRescue_Desk_520x500_b51e6557-89fd-41e0-a21b-816616233043.jpg?v=1739826680",520,271,"geoSpotlight",{"_1623":1624,"_2120":2121},"spotlightItems",[1625,1982,2111],{"_12":1626,"_1627":1628,"_1629":1630,"_29":1631,"_1632":1633,"_1636":1637,"_1130":1638,"_10":1643,"_985":1644,"_1645":1646},"Ben Avon AQI Alert","range",75,"markerIconUrl","https://cdn.airvisual.net/assets/marker-images/generic.png","autoGenCustomMarker","location",[1634,1635],-80.0821377,40.5051586,"timestamp","2026-03-23T06:04:25.107Z",{"_246":1639,"_541":1640,"_1641":1642},"https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/unhealthy-for-sensitive-groups","Ben Avon has \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" air quality. See the map and health recommendations.","thumbnail","https://www.iqair.com/dl/app/notifications/Notification_Daily_AQI_Face_03_Orange@3x.png","autoGenCustomMarker:city-5bc822e841fdcdf1939e7d23","unhealthy-for-sensitive-groups","article",{"_541":1647,"_985":1644,"_1131":1648,"_1134":1649,"_1136":1650,"_1143":1651,"_577":1652,"_1126":1653,"_1149":1654,"_980":1658,"_1661":-5,"_1662":-5,"_1663":1664,"_1667":-5,"_1668":-5,"_1669":1670},"When air quality is \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\"","Learn about the risks of this AQI range and protect the vulnerable from potential hazards.","Understanding the \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" AQI Range An Air Quality Index (AQI) between 101-150 is deemed \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.\" Sensitive groups include: Children The Elderly Pregnant People People with cardiac and pulmonary diseases .recommendations-container { border: 1px solid #e5e7eb; border-radius: 12px; background-color: #f9fafb; padding: 24px; color: #111827; font-family: sans-serif; } .recommendations-table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; text-align: center; } .recommendations-table th, .recommendations-table td { border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 16px; vertical-align: middle; } .recommendations-title { color: #499fbc; font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.5em; } .recommendation-subheading { font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0; } .recommendation-block { display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; gap: 8px; justify-content: center; padding: 16px 0; } .recommendation-block img { max-width: 50px; height: auto; } .recommendation-text { font-size: 18px; text-align: center; } /* Responsive styling */ @media (max-width: 768px) { .recommendations-table, .recommendations-table thead, .recommendations-table tbody, .recommendations-table tr, .recommendations-table td, .recommendations-table th { display: block; width: 100%; } .recommendations-table tr { margin-bottom: 20px; } .recommendations-table td, .recommendations-table th { text-align: center; border: none; border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; } .recommendation-block { flex-direction: column; align-items: center; } .recommendation-text { font-size: 16px; } .recommendation-block img { max-width: 40px; } } HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS How to protect from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups pollution Wear a mask outdoors and indoorsGET A MASK Run an air purifierGET AN AIR PURIFIER Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor airGET A MONITOR Reduce outdoor exercise Protective Measures for Sensitive Groups When air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, everyone is at risk for eye, skin, and throat irritation, as well as respiratory problems. The public should greatly reduce outdoor exertion. While the broader population might still be largely unaffected, sensitive groups are at much greater health risk and should be very cautious. They should avoid all outdoor activity. How can I protect myself when air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality. Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Sensitive groups should stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants","

Understanding the \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" AQI Range

An Air Quality Index (AQI) between 101-150 is deemed \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.\" Sensitive groups include:

Children
The Elderly
Pregnant People
People with cardiac and pulmonary diseases

\n\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS
How to protect from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups pollution
\n \n $\"Mask$ \n Wear a mask outdoors and indoors GET A MASK\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Air$ \n Run an air purifier GET AN AIR PURIFIER\n \n \n
\n \n $\"Monitor$ \n Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor air GET A MONITOR\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Exercise$ \n Reduce outdoor exercise \n \n

Protective Measures for Sensitive Groups

When air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, everyone is at risk for eye, skin, and throat irritation, as well as respiratory problems. The public should greatly reduce outdoor exertion.

While the broader population might still be largely unaffected, sensitive groups are at much greater health risk and should be very cautious. They should avoid all outdoor activity.

How can I protect myself when air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups?

Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality.
Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Sensitive groups should stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants

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Award-winning, medical-grade & gas/odor filtration for medium to large rooms.

IQAir's top-selling room air purifier, featuring advanced HyperHEPA filtration for particles of all sizes and V5-Cell filtration for gases and odors. Excellent for allergens, bacteria¹, dust, viruses² and VOCs. The HealthPro 250 model includes smart air monitoring, WiFi app integration, energy-efficient fan, and real-time PM2.5 measurement. Covers up to 990 sq. ft.

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IQAir Mask redefines what wearing a protective KN95/FFP2 mask should feel like. Engineered to not only provide superior reduction for a wide range of airborne pollutants, but also designed to provide the most comfortable wearing experience ever. Valveless, medical-grade, all-day protection KN95-certified air pollution mask filters 95% of particles down to 0.3 microns, PM2.5, PM1, PM10, and other common particulates.","

High-performance, comfortable mask with tight seal for better protection.

IQAir Mask redefines what wearing a protective KN95/FFP2 mask should feel like. Engineered to not only provide superior reduction for a wide range of airborne pollutants, but also designed to provide the most comfortable wearing experience ever. Valveless, medical-grade, all-day protection KN95-certified air pollution mask filters 95% of particles down to 0.3 microns, PM2.5, PM1, PM10, and other common particulates.

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See the map and health recommendations.","https://www.iqair.com/dl/app/notifications/Notification_Daily_AQI_Face_06_Maroon@3x.png","autoGenCustomMarker:city-656d711bb9a8cf89b45f3946","hazardous-air-quality",{"_541":1995,"_985":1993,"_1131":1996,"_1134":1997,"_1136":1998,"_1143":1999,"_577":2000,"_1126":2001,"_1149":2002,"_980":2006,"_1661":-5,"_1662":-5,"_1663":2008,"_1667":-5,"_1668":-5,"_1669":2009},"When air quality is \"Hazardous\"","When the AQI enters the hazardous range, it's time to take serious precautions.","Grasping the Severity of Hazardous AQI An Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 300 is termed \"Hazardous.\" At this extreme, there's a health warning of emergency conditions. The entire population is likely to be severely affected. .recommendations-container { border: 1px solid #e5e7eb; border-radius: 12px; background-color: #f9fafb; padding: 24px; color: #111827; font-family: sans-serif; } .recommendations-table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; text-align: center; } .recommendations-table th, .recommendations-table td { border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 16px; vertical-align: middle; } .recommendations-title { color: #499fbc; font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.5em; } .recommendation-subheading { font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0; } .recommendation-block { display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; gap: 8px; justify-content: center; padding: 16px 0; } .recommendation-block img { max-width: 50px; height: auto; } .recommendation-text { font-size: 18px; text-align: center; } /* Responsive styling */ @media (max-width: 768px) { .recommendations-table, .recommendations-table thead, .recommendations-table tbody, .recommendations-table tr, .recommendations-table td, .recommendations-table th { display: block; width: 100%; } .recommendations-table tr { margin-bottom: 20px; } .recommendations-table td, .recommendations-table th { text-align: center; border: none; border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; } .recommendation-block { flex-direction: column; align-items: center; } .recommendation-text { font-size: 16px; } .recommendation-block img { max-width: 40px; } } HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS How to protect from Hazardous pollution Wear a mask outdoors and indoorsGET A MASK Run an air purifierGET AN AIR PURIFIER Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor airGET A MONITOR Avoid outdoor exercise Protective Measures for Hazardous Air Quality When air quality is hazardous, everyone is at high risk of experiencing strong irritation and negative health effects that could trigger respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses. Avoid exercise and remain indoors. Avoid outdoor exercise. It is advisable to wear a pollution mask outdoors and indoors as well. Air purifiers should be turned on. Heed every local health advisory, and ensure homes are sealed effectively against the polluted air. Join the movement! Get a monitor and contribute to air quality data in your city BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR How can I protect myself when air quality is hazardous? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality. Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Note that “Hazardous” pollution levels require a mask even when indoors.Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants. How to best protect from air pollution? Reduce your air pollution exposure Face Mask Air Purifier Air quality monitors /* Ensure full-width container */ .container { width: 100%; } /* Responsive styles */ @media (max-width: 768px) { /* Stack images vertically on smaller screens */ table { width: 100%; display: block; } table tr { display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; } table td { width: 100%; padding: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; } table td img { max-width: 100%; height: auto; } /* Adjust h3 and p for smaller screens */ h3 { font-size: 1.5em; } p { font-size: 1.1em; } }","

Grasping the Severity of Hazardous AQI

An Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 300 is termed \"Hazardous.\" At this extreme, there's a health warning of emergency conditions. The entire population is likely to be severely affected.

\n\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS
How to protect from Hazardous pollution
\n \n $\"Mask$ \n Wear a mask outdoors and indoors GET A MASK\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Air$ \n Run an air purifier GET AN AIR PURIFIER\n \n \n
\n \n $\"Monitor$ \n Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor air GET A MONITOR\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Exercise$ \n Avoid outdoor exercise \n \n

\n

Protective Measures for Hazardous Air Quality

When air quality is hazardous, everyone is at high risk of experiencing strong irritation and negative health effects that could trigger respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses.

Avoid exercise and remain indoors. Avoid outdoor exercise. It is advisable to wear a pollution mask outdoors and indoors as well. Air purifiers should be turned on. Heed every local health advisory, and ensure homes are sealed effectively against the polluted air.

Join the movement!

Get a monitor and contribute to air quality data in your city

BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR

How can I protect myself when air quality is hazardous?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality.
Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Note that “Hazardous” pollution levels require a mask even when indoors.Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants.

How to best protect from air pollution?

Reduce your air pollution exposure

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\n $\"Mask\"$ \n

Face Mask

\n $\"HPP\"$ \n

Air Purifier

\n $\"AV$ \n

Air quality monitors

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