Residents of several cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are facing very poor air quality this morning, which is why experts are warning of possible negative health consequences, especially for the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Citizens are advised to spend as little time outdoors as possible.
According to measurements recorded at 8 a.m. on the “Air – Eco Action” platform, the worst situation is in Tuzla, Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Maglaj and Visoko, where the air quality index values are classified as “unhealthy”.
The most polluted cities this morning
Tuzla – air quality index 159
Sarajevo – 158
Banja Luka – 156
Maglaj – 156
Visoko – 152
These values indicate an increased concentration of harmful particles in the air, which can cause irritation of the respiratory tract, increase asthma symptoms, as well as aggravation of existing lung and heart diseases.
Most vulnerable population groups
Doctors warn that people with chronic lung and heart diseases, pregnant women, children and the elderly should completely avoid being outdoors, as well as any physical activity outdoors. For other citizens, reduced intensity of physical activity and as short a stay in the open air as possible are recommended.
In addition to the most polluted cities, in several areas the air was categorized as “unhealthy for sensitive groups” this morning, which means that chronically ill people, children and the elderly should be especially careful:
Travnik – index 142
Ilijaš – 132
Bosanski Brod – 119
Gacko – 116
Prijedor – 114
Kakanj – 109
Moderately polluted air in other cities
Moderately increased pollution values are also recorded in other parts of the country:
Lukavac, Zenica, Ugljevik – index 100
Hadžići – 81
Živinice – 64
Livno, Bihać – 52
In these areas the air is not healthy, but does not pose an immediate danger to the wider population. However, monitoring measurements and caution for sensitive groups are recommended.
