Ministry of Health and Wellness says further research is needed to determine whether there is any co-relation in light of recent studies highlighting a potential link between Saharan dust and the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Saharan dust is a mixture of sand and dust from the Sahara Desert in northern Africa. Once it is lifted from the ground by strong winds, clouds of dust can reach very high altitudes and be transported worldwide, covering thousands of miles.

The dust makes its way to Jamaica and the wider Caribbean basin in plumes between May and September, blanketing clear skies and turning them murky brown. There is speculation circulating that a link exists between the onset of Saharan dust and an increase in COVID-19 cases, given recent research.

Jamaica has also seen an increase in respiratory illnesses that have plagued the island, resulting in a few hospitalisations.

According to Orlando health pulmonologist, Dr Herman Gaztambide, Saharan dust can mimic COVID-19 symptoms such as shortness of breath, runny nose, and respiratory illnesses, causing some to believe they have the virus.

While speaking with Our Today, Dr Nicole Dawkins-Wright, director of emergency, disaster management and special services (EDMSS) in the Ministry of Health, confirmed that environmental factors such as dust or pollution are common causes of respiratory symptoms like COVID-19.

“Saharan dust, as with other particulate matter found in the atmosphere, is an irritant and can cause respiratory symptoms, especially in persons with allergic tendencies. COVID-19 is caused by a virus that affects, among other things, the respiratory system and also causes respiratory symptoms. Some of the respiratory symptoms from allergic triggers may mimic COVID-19.

These include runny nose, coughing, wheezing and chest tightness, chest congestion, and flu-like body aches and pains. The Saharan dust may also worsen respiratory symptoms due to other conditions, including COVID-19 disease,” she explained.

While reports from the ministry have indicated a jump in COVID cases, Dawkins-Wright said there has been no study done by the Government to assess whether there is a link between the virus and Sahara dust.

However, she noted that respiratory surveillance is an ongoing activity by the ministry, where deviations from expected patterns are assessed.

“Persons with respiratory symptoms undergo a clinical assessment that includes inquiry into possible exposures and are sampled according to the ministry’s surveillance protocols. These samples are tested using a respiratory panel that includes SARS-CoV2, the virus that causes COVID-19,” she said.

In the meantime, to differentiate between the two, citizens are urged to assess whether they have a fever. While Sahara dust can mimic COVID symptoms, it doesn’t trigger a fever, which is a main characteristic of the virus.

Preventative measures

Dawkins-Wright further advised citizens to take the necessary steps to protect themselves from the wave of Saharan dust and COVID.

The following preventative measures were recommended:

• Washing hands regularly and avoiding touching eyes and nose.
• Wearing a mask that protects self as well as others by preventing the spread of the virus.
• Store water safely and keep it covered.
• Avoid outdoors when dust levels are high, especially for about two weeks after dust incursion.
• OTC (over-the-counter) allergy medications help to relieve symptoms.
• Children, the elderly, and persons with underlying respiratory conditions, especially asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and allergies, and Long COVID Syndrome are advised to take extra precautions and use their prescribed medications as directed, and seek emergency medical care when necessary.
• Monitor for other symptoms that could signal COVID-19.
• Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
• Take COVID-19 and flu vaccines.