The havoc of poisonous air in Delhi and Noida is at its peak. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 500, which falls in the 'very severe' category. In such a situation, experts have advised to take strict steps and be cautious.

The havoc of poisonous air in Delhi and Noida is at its peak. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 500, which falls in the 'very severe' category. At this level of pollution, doctors warn that it is dangerous not just for the sensitive groups but for the entire population. Experts have advised to take strict steps and be cautious.

Dr Rajat Sharma of Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital said the situation is so serious that N95 masks are no longer an option but a compulsion. Healthy individuals can also face respiratory illnesses and other complications. He said surgical or cloth masks do not provide as much protection as N95 masks.

At the same time, senior doctor of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Ujjwal Parakh said that people should stay indoors as much as possible. He suggested keeping windows and doors closed, and using air purifiers at home. Wear a mask when going outside and drink more fluids to maintain the water content in the body.

Doctors

said that PM2.5 and PM10 particles present in polluted air can go deep into the lungs and cause inflammation and infection. Complaints of cough, allergies and asthma are increasing in children. At the same time, the elderly and people suffering from heart diseases are at risk of serious complications. Dr Parakh also said that masks are helpful in blocking the formation of solid particles but cannot block harmful gases like ozone and nitrogen dioxide. He advised to change the mask regularly and ensure the right fit.

What to do?

* Install air purifiers with HEPA filters in the house.

* Avoid going outside, especially in the morning and evening.

* Use N95 or N99 masks.

* Eat nutritious food and drink more water.

* Contact the doctor immediately if you have difficulty breathing.

Experts

have attributed the pollution to stubble burning, local emissions and low wind speed. Ravi Kumar, a resident of Dilshad Garden, said, "For the last two-three days, I have been having itchy eyes and having trouble breathing. The air of Delhi-Noida is no longer breathable. Staying alert by following the advice of doctors is the only defense in this situation.