Advice for daily health bulletin users

The daily health bulletin contains forecasts of today’s air pollution, UV index, pollen and temperature in a one-page format suitable for display in public spaces. Just print out in colour or greyscale and pin up.

Air pollution: This page contains help and advice related to air pollution (see below).

UV: Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign has advice on staying safe in the sun

Pollen: The NHS hay fever webpage has advice on prevention and treatment of hay fever

Temperature: The NHS heatwave webpage has advice about how to keep cool in hot weather and a link to the Department of Health’s heatwave plan for 2011

What should I do when I receive an air pollution alert?

Depending on how high pollution levels are forecast to be, there are various simple steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of any impacts on you. The messages will provide you with advice but the action you can take depends on the level of pollution expected.

MODERATE AIR POLLUTION	HIGH AIR POLLUTION	VERY HIGH AIR POLLUTION

What health effects may I notice?	What health effects may I notice?	What health effects may I notice?
You may notice mild health effects You are unlikely to need to take any action but be aware of your symptoms Take reliever medication with you as a precaution	You may notice significant effects such as wheezing or more difficulty in breathing or chest pains if you have a heart condition	You may notice a worsening of breathing difficulties or chest pains if you have a heart condition
What can I do?	What can I do?	What can I do?
You are unlikely to need to take any action but be aware of symptoms Take reliever medication with you as a precaution Talk to your doctor if you have concerns	Keep reliever medication with you as a precaution You may need to increase dose of reliever medication – BUT NEVER EXCEED THE STATED DOSE Consider reducing exposure by spending less time outdoors Try to avoid strenuous outdoor activity Talk to your doctor if you have concerns	Keep reliever medication with you Increase dose of reliever medication if you are affected – NEVER EXCEED THE STATED DOSE Avoid long periods outdoors. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns

You can also use the maps of pollution in your area to see exactly where pollution levels are expected to be higher, on a street by street basis. This can help you avoid exposure, for example by not walking or cycling along polluted streets.

Is there anything else I need to know?

Remember that air pollution levels are normally low in London and for most of the time you will not notice any effects on your health. It’s important that you do not become alarmed or panic when you receive a airTEXT alert. It is designed to help you ensure you have any necessary medication at hand and to prepare your day ahead to reduce your exposure.