Emergency room visits increase in Cyprus due to dust storm

Cyprus has recorded an increase in emergency room visits amid a new wave of dust. Patients are presenting with asthma, bronchitis, and allergic reactions, reports Philenews. Some required hospitalization, leading the State Health Services Organisation (SHSO/OKYPY) to redistribute beds in general wards.

Those most affected are people with chronic conditions — asthmatics, and patients with lung and cardiovascular diseases. These individuals seek medical help more frequently, with some requiring inpatient treatment. According to health system representative Charalambos Charilaou, despite the pressure, all necessary care is being provided to patients.

The situation is complicated by the fact that these patients require several days for recovery, meaning beds are freed up more slowly. This forces medical facilities to redistribute resources between new and already hospitalized patients.

Experts recommend limiting time outdoors during dust storms, especially for people with chronic diseases. Symptoms exacerbate more quickly and are more severe during periods of high dust concentration.

The Cyprus Pulmonology Society had previously warned of health risks. Pulmonologist Alexandros Armeftis noted that the dust contains PM10 and PM2.5 particles. The latter are particularly dangerous as they penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, and cause inflammation, worsening chronic conditions.

On April 3, Cyprus recorded the strongest dust storm in the last ten years, with PM10 levels exceeding 200 µg/m³, significantly above safe values. While the current wave is weaker, the atmosphere has not yet fully cleared, continuing to affect patients' health.