No Adverse Health Impacts Expected in Scotland from Icelandic Volcanic Ash
Health Protection Scotland (HPS) is liaising closely with the HPA and other partner organisations across the United Kingdom to monitor the movement of the latest Icelandic volcanic ash plume and assess its significance to public health.
Recent information indicates that the plume from the Grímsvötn volcano has reached ground level in some parts of Scotland, particularly the far north, resulting in deposition of ash on surfaces. Routine air monitoring so far does not indicate a significant deterioration in air quality, though there have been detections of some increases in fine particulates (PM10) for periods overnight. Air monitoring will continue to track evidence of any impact on air quality.
Analysis of health surveillance data in the last 24 hours has not shown any evidence of unusual patterns of health complaints. Analysis of similar data in 2010 following the Eyjafjallajokull eruption did not detect any adverse effects on health in Scotland.
The concentration of fine ash particles is not expected to reach levels likely to impact on health for most people. However, people with chronic respiratory conditions may be more susceptible to increased levels of particles in the air and may therefore wish to make sure they have access to their medication, especially inhalers, if spending time outdoors. If they notice any deterioration in air quality or worsening of symptoms they may wish to limit their outdoor exposure.
Dr Colin Ramsay, Consultant Epidemiologist at HPS, said: "Similar to last year's eruption, we don't expect the volcanic ash to cause any significant adverse health effects in Scotland. People spending time outdoors may notice small amounts of ash settling on surfaces, a slight haze in the air, or a sulphurous smell similar to rotten eggs, but these signs are not cause for alarm. As a precautionary measure, people with existing chronic respiratory problems such as asthma or chronic bronchitis should be aware that they may be more sensitive to any reductions in air quality. As a result may wish to ensure they have their medication with them and, if they do notice a worsening of their conditions, they may wish to limit their activities outside".
Background Information
The Grímsvötn volcano in Iceland began erupting on the evening of Saturday 21 May. It is the most powerful Icelandic eruption in over 50 years. In the first 24 hours the plume reached heights of 15-17km with short bursts to 20km.