Effects of ash on health — Information regarding Mt. Shinmoe

Effects of ash on health may be divided into several categories: respiratory symptoms, eye symptoms and skin irritation. Refer to the following information to prevent health issues.

In rare circumstances when there is a lot of ash, people may experience the following symptoms:

1) Respiratory symptoms

• Nasal irritation
• Throat irritation and sore throat
• Coughing

People suffering from asthma, bronchitis, emphysema​, or severe heart problems are most at risk.

2) Eye symptoms

• Eye irritation
• Eyes becoming painful, itchy or bloodshot

3) Skin irritation

While not common, volcanic ash can cause skin irritation for some people.

Symptoms include

• Irritation and reddening of the skin
• Skin becoming painful and swollen

• Brush the ash off your hair and clothes before you go inside
• Wash your hands and rinse your mouth when you come home
• When outside, wear a mask and use an umbrella
• Avoid rubbing your eyes if ash gets inside, instead rinse your eyes with clear water
• Contact lens wearers should leave out their lenses to prevent corneal abrasion from occurring

In case of health issues due to eye troubles or inhaled ash etc, please consult a doctor.

• If possible, stay inside
• If you must go outside, wear long sleeves and put on a mask and hat and use an umbrella
• When cleaning, wear a mask and goggles. Lightly watering down the ash will keep exposure levels at a minimum

• If possible, keep children inside
• If children must be outdoors when ash is present in the air, they should wear masks
• Do not let children play in places where ash is deep on the ground or piled up
• Children should be advised against strenuous play or running when ash is in the air, since exertion leads to heavier breathing, drawing small particles more deeply into the lungs.