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Rain was centered on eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York City, and southern New England.Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?States most impacted by flooding include New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and parts of Pennsylvania. New York City, New York: New York City issued a travel advisory due to heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Basement apartments in flood-prone areas were advised to prepare for possible evacuation. Atlantic City, New Jersey: A coastal flood warning was issued for communities in Atlantic City, where several roads were closed due to flooding. Washington, North Carolina: Floodwaters caused street flooding and affected the city's boardwalk area. Residents were warned to avoid the downtown area due to storm surge flooding. New Bern, North Carolina: Roads were flooded, and water crept inland as levels rose in the downtown area. Bethany Beach, Delaware: Coastal flooding closed several roads in this seaside community. Sea Isle City, New Jersey: Flooding caused knee-deep water at an intersection in the coastal city. Annapolis, Maryland: Residents in City Dock are dealing with flood waters after the weekend’s downpour (4). Richmond, Virginia: The storm struck Richmond with potential heavy rainfall and flooding. Chesapeake Bay Area: Coastal flooding was a threat in portions of the Chesapeake Bay. What is the current containment status of the flooding?Tropical Storm Ophelia has weakened to a post-tropical cyclone, but it still poses a risk of flooding and heavy rainfall in the Mid-Atlantic region. Efforts to contain and mitigate the flooding are ongoing, and emergency management officials anticipate the water levels to go down over the course of a few hours.Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?Several evacuation orders and alerts have been issued due to the flooding caused by Tropical Storm Ophelia. These include: New York City: A travel advisory was issued, and residents in flood-prone areas were advised to prepare to move to higher ground and avoid driving on flooded streets or entering flooded subway stations. North Carolina, Maryland, and Virginia: States of emergency were declared in three mid-Atlantic states in advance of the flooding (5,6,7). North Carolina, Delaware, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey: Thousands of homes and businesses lost power as a result of the storm. Explore the full range of HealthPro HyperHEPA air purifiers SHOP NOW How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","contentHtml","

What is the location of the flooding?

In the wake of Tropical Storm Ophelia, flooding has impacted multiple U.S. states as of September 25, 2023 (1)(2)(3).

Flooding primarily affected the mid-Atlantic region of the United States, spanning from Long Island, New York to North Carolina.

By Monday morning, September 25, the storm had been downgraded to a post-tropical storm cyclone. Rain was centered on eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York City, and southern New England.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

States most impacted by flooding include New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and parts of Pennsylvania.

\nNew York City, New York: New York City issued a travel advisory due to heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Basement apartments in flood-prone areas were advised to prepare for possible evacuation.
\nAtlantic City, New Jersey: A coastal flood warning was issued for communities in Atlantic City, where several roads were closed due to flooding.
Washington, North Carolina: Floodwaters caused street flooding and affected the city's boardwalk area. Residents were warned to avoid the downtown area due to storm surge flooding.
\nNew Bern, North Carolina: Roads were flooded, and water crept inland as levels rose in the downtown area.
\nBethany Beach, Delaware: Coastal flooding closed several roads in this seaside community.
\nSea Isle City, New Jersey: Flooding caused knee-deep water at an intersection in the coastal city.
\nAnnapolis, Maryland: Residents in City Dock are dealing with flood waters after the weekend’s downpour (4).
\nRichmond, Virginia: The storm struck Richmond with potential heavy rainfall and flooding.
Chesapeake Bay Area: Coastal flooding was a threat in portions of the Chesapeake Bay.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

Tropical Storm Ophelia has weakened to a post-tropical cyclone, but it still poses a risk of flooding and heavy rainfall in the Mid-Atlantic region. Efforts to contain and mitigate the flooding are ongoing, and emergency management officials anticipate the water levels to go down over the course of a few hours.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Several evacuation orders and alerts have been issued due to the flooding caused by Tropical Storm Ophelia. These include:

New York City: A travel advisory was issued, and residents in flood-prone areas were advised to prepare to move to higher ground and avoid driving on flooded streets or entering flooded subway stations.
North Carolina, Maryland, and Virginia: States of emergency were declared in three mid-Atlantic states in advance of the flooding (5,6,7).
North Carolina, Delaware, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey: Thousands of homes and businesses lost power as a result of the storm.

Explore the full range of HealthPro HyperHEPA air purifiers

\n\n\n

\n SHOP NOW\n

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-east-coast-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/564890763342","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-east-coast-flooding","trackingParameters","publishedAt","2023-09-25T17:31:39Z",[1124,1125],"Air Quality","Molds","Indoor Air Quality Alert: East Coast Flooding","image",{"_10":1129,"_1130":1131,"_597":1132,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269755220046","altText","Flooding after Tropical Storm Ophelia.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/OpheliaStorm_Desktop_B_65ab175e-05fc-483f-bf7f-4b51a4a6ad86.jpg?v=1753941680","width",2280,950,{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1137,"_1094":1138,"_1110":1139,"_1111":1139,"_1112":1140,"_1114":1141,"_962":1142,"_10":1143,"_1118":1144,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1145,"_594":1146,"_558":1147,"_1127":1148},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Read about Erin Porter's struggle with mold-related health issues and her remarkable recovery with IQAir.","\"Everybody kept telling me, ‘You’re fine.' But I didn’t feel fine. I was exhausted. In fact, I felt like I was coming down with the flu every day of my life,” Erin Porter recalls.This sentiment paints a vivid picture of Erin’s years-long struggle, a battle against an unseen enemy that had persistently compromised her health. Erin's story is one of intrigue, resilience, and ultimately, triumph. But how did she turn the tide in this persistent struggle?Erin's health mysteriesA childhood relocation from the Bronx to upstate New York sparked Erin's health odyssey, with doctors attributing her mild health problems to the new environment's different tree species. \"I had asthma and allergies, so I started with medications, like steroids and inhalers at six years old,” Erin recounted.But health challenges were not limited to Erin’s childhood years. As she entered adulthood and started working in Manhattan at 18, her health took a drastic downturn. She recalls, \"I always had a million things I had wrong with me.” She struggled with head-to-toe different symptoms, including severe sinus infections that would last for weeks.Erin's health woes were not confined to recurrent sinus infections; she experienced many other ailments, including heart arrhythmias and severe acid reflux that caused sores on her esophagus.Erin's persistent health issues, unresponsive to antibiotics, baffled both her and her doctors, regardless of where she lived. \"I had no idea it would take two decades to find out why I was so sick,” she said.Revealing mold's assault on health and wellnessErin had already undergone four sinus surgeries when her search for answers came to a head. While prepping for a fifth sinus surgery, her physician pointed out a severe fungal infection she had in her sinuses. It was then that Erin traced her health issues back to the mold-ridden apartment she had lived in at 18. “I thought back, and I remembered seeing mold. But at that age, I'd never thought anything of it. Apartments in New York have mold. That's just how it is.”The revelation was stunning. \"I don't even live there anymore, and I'm still sick,\" Erin remembers saying to her doctor.The role of mold and indoor air qualityAt a glance, mold may seem harmless, but its invisible spores, which float in the air, can wreak havoc on health when inhaled over extended periods. And for individuals with compromised immunity, like Erin, fungal infections can rapidly escalate into profound and long-lasting health complications.Studies have demonstrated substantial increases in respiratory infections when people have prolonged exposure to mold. It has also been shown that controlling mold can reduce and prevent these same types of respiratory infections and help with cases of severe mold infections, like Erin’s (1).IQAir: The key player in Erin's health restoration journeyRecognizing the damage mold had caused, Erin embarked on a mission to transform the air quality in her living spaces. She went down, as she called it, “the air quality and air cleaning rabbit hole,” delving into online marketplaces and scouring message boards.As she researched, Erin eventually discovered IQAir’s HealthPro Plus air purifier. Renowned for its efficiency, the HealthPro Plus has state-of-the-art HyperHEPA filters that capture even the smallest particles in the air, including mold spores. Erin knew this could play a significant role in cleaning her air and mitigating her mold-related health issues.Erin's strategy to improve her health was two-pronged. On one hand, she found an effective tool in the IQAir HealthPro Plus air purifier to cleanse her living environment of harmful mold spores.This environmental solution was complemented by a comprehensive lifestyle overhaul. She replaced the unhealthy allure of junk food with a cleaner, more wholesome diet.Together, these two components of her strategy—powerful air purification and lifestyle transformation—started to show results. It wasn't an overnight change, but Erin's persistent pursuit of health began to pay off.A breath of fresh life: Erin's health revival after mold eradicationErin started witnessing remarkable improvements. Her constant health issues, which had included chronic sinus infections, acid reflux, asthma, food allergies, chronic fatigue, and muscle pain, began to recede. Her energy levels surged, and for the first time in years, Erin felt she was finally regaining control of her life and health.Reflecting on Erin's journey from mold exposure to health triumphErin's story highlights the often-overlooked role of indoor air quality and mold in health, and the transformative power of IQAir air purifiers in reclaiming wellness.Now, Erin shares her insights, wholesome recipes, and unique experiences through her book, Eat Pray Get Well and various other media platforms. She was featured on numerous outlets such as PBS American Health Journal, ABC, CBS, and NBC, bringing a ray of hope to the chronically ill.Erin’s journey, punctuated by her use of IQAir’s HealthPro Plus and lifestyle changes, has empowered her to make a significant impact on others' lives, showing that no matter the adversities we face, a better tomorrow is always within reach.","

\"Everybody kept telling me, ‘You’re fine.' But I didn’t feel fine. I was exhausted. In fact, I felt like I was coming down with the flu every day of my life,” Erin Porter recalls.

This sentiment paints a vivid picture of Erin’s years-long struggle, a battle against an unseen enemy that had persistently compromised her health. Erin's story is one of intrigue, resilience, and ultimately, triumph. But how did she turn the tide in this persistent struggle?

Erin's health mysteries

A childhood relocation from the Bronx to upstate New York sparked Erin's health odyssey, with doctors attributing her mild health problems to the new environment's different tree species. \"I had asthma and allergies, so I started with medications, like steroids and inhalers at six years old,” Erin recounted.

But health challenges were not limited to Erin’s childhood years. As she entered adulthood and started working in Manhattan at 18, her health took a drastic downturn. She recalls, \"I always had a million things I had wrong with me.” She struggled with head-to-toe different symptoms, including severe sinus infections that would last for weeks.

Erin's health woes were not confined to recurrent sinus infections; she experienced many other ailments, including heart arrhythmias and severe acid reflux that caused sores on her esophagus.

Erin's persistent health issues, unresponsive to antibiotics, baffled both her and her doctors, regardless of where she lived. \"I had no idea it would take two decades to find out why I was so sick,” she said.

Revealing mold's assault on health and wellness

Erin had already undergone four sinus surgeries when her search for answers came to a head. While prepping for a fifth sinus surgery, her physician pointed out a severe fungal infection she had in her sinuses. It was then that Erin traced her health issues back to the mold-ridden apartment she had lived in at 18. “I thought back, and I remembered seeing mold. But at that age, I'd never thought anything of it. Apartments in New York have mold. That's just how it is.”

The revelation was stunning. \"I don't even live there anymore, and I'm still sick,\" Erin remembers saying to her doctor.

The role of mold and indoor air quality

At a glance, mold may seem harmless, but its invisible spores, which float in the air, can wreak havoc on health when inhaled over extended periods. And for individuals with compromised immunity, like Erin, fungal infections can rapidly escalate into profound and long-lasting health complications.

Studies have demonstrated substantial increases in respiratory infections when people have prolonged exposure to mold. It has also been shown that controlling mold can reduce and prevent these same types of respiratory infections and help with cases of severe mold infections, like Erin’s (1).

IQAir: The key player in Erin's health restoration journey

Recognizing the damage mold had caused, Erin embarked on a mission to transform the air quality in her living spaces. She went down, as she called it, “the air quality and air cleaning rabbit hole,” delving into online marketplaces and scouring message boards.

As she researched, Erin eventually discovered IQAir’s HealthPro Plus air purifier. Renowned for its efficiency, the HealthPro Plus has state-of-the-art HyperHEPA filters that capture even the smallest particles in the air, including mold spores. Erin knew this could play a significant role in cleaning her air and mitigating her mold-related health issues.

Erin's strategy to improve her health was two-pronged. On one hand, she found an effective tool in the IQAir HealthPro Plus air purifier to cleanse her living environment of harmful mold spores.

This environmental solution was complemented by a comprehensive lifestyle overhaul. She replaced the unhealthy allure of junk food with a cleaner, more wholesome diet.

Together, these two components of her strategy—powerful air purification and lifestyle transformation—started to show results. It wasn't an overnight change, but Erin's persistent pursuit of health began to pay off.

A breath of fresh life: Erin's health revival after mold eradication

Erin started witnessing remarkable improvements. Her constant health issues, which had included chronic sinus infections, acid reflux, asthma, food allergies, chronic fatigue, and muscle pain, began to recede. Her energy levels surged, and for the first time in years, Erin felt she was finally regaining control of her life and health.

Reflecting on Erin's journey from mold exposure to health triumph

Erin's story highlights the often-overlooked role of indoor air quality and mold in health, and the transformative power of IQAir air purifiers in reclaiming wellness.

Now, Erin shares her insights, wholesome recipes, and unique experiences through her book, Eat Pray Get Well and various other media platforms. She was featured on numerous outlets such as PBS American Health Journal, ABC, CBS, and NBC, bringing a ray of hope to the chronically ill.

Erin’s journey, punctuated by her use of IQAir’s HealthPro Plus and lifestyle changes, has empowered her to make a significant impact on others' lives, showing that no matter the adversities we face, a better tomorrow is always within reach.

","erin-porter-success-story","gid://shopify/Article/564923826254","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/erin-porter-success-story","2023-09-25T07:00:00Z",[670,1125,851],"Erin Porter: Triumphing Over Mold and Reclaiming Health",{"_10":1149,"_1130":1150,"_597":1151,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269651705934","Erin Porter posing in a television set","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_aaroncarol_Desk_A_abd769ff-fefa-4c4d-8d48-b76fea4816de.jpg?v=1753087961",2880,1500,{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1155,"_1094":1156,"_1110":43,"_1111":43,"_1112":1157,"_1114":1158,"_962":1159,"_10":1160,"_1118":1161,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1162,"_594":1163,"_558":1164,"_1127":1165},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"What is the location of the flooding?Catastrophic flooding impacted Leominster, Massachusetts and parts of New England on September 12, 2023 (1)(2)(3). The city received 10 inches of rain in six hours (4).Leominster is about 40 miles northwest of Boston in central Massachusetts. Fitchburg, Lunenburg, Sterling, and North Attleborough, Massachusetts and Providence, Rhode Island were also affected by flash flooding.This follows severe flooding in Vermont and New England in July.Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Leominster, Massachusetts: Leominster was the epicenter of the flooding, with widespread damage to buildings, roads, dams, and infrastructure. Evacuations took place, and numerous roads were closed. A significant number of homes and businesses in Leominster were affected by the flooding, and schools were closed. Fitchburg, Lunenburg, and Sterling, Massachusetts: These towns, located near Leominster, were also at risk of flash flooding. North Attleborough, Massachusetts: North Attleborough experienced significant damage to homes and roads due to heavy rain and flooding. Approximately 200 homes were damaged. Providence, Rhode Island: In Providence, Rhode Island, there was flooding in a parking lot and parts of a shopping mall on Branch Avenue. Firefighters had to rescue stranded individuals in their cars. Some roads in Rhode Island, and Nashua, New Hampshire were flooded. What is the current containment status of the flooding?As of Wednesday, September 13, 2023, the region was still receiving rain from thunderstorms. On Thursday, the rains had abated.Some dams sustained damage in Leominster, but they held. The city was working to reinforce them. Additionally, one dam, the Barrett Park Pond Dam, was of concern due to its poor condition.Further intense rainstorms and associated flooding are possible in the upcoming weekend, complicating recovery efforts. Hurricane Lee may pass close to New England and Atlantic Canadian provinces on Friday night, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (5).Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?Leominster and North Attleborough declared states of emergency. Additionally, Governor Maura Healey declared a state of emergency in Massachusetts on September 12, 2023 (6). Leominster, Massachusetts: There were evacuation orders in place for areas near a brook and the North Nashua River in Leominster due to concerns about the Barrett Park Pond Dam. Residents were urged to \"immediately evacuate and safely leave the area.\" Schools were closed in the city. North Attleborough, Massachusetts: Because North Attleborough experienced significant flooding, emergency response teams were dispatched to assist residents. How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

Catastrophic flooding impacted Leominster, Massachusetts and parts of New England on September 12, 2023 (1)(2)(3). The city received 10 inches of rain in six hours (4).

Leominster is about 40 miles northwest of Boston in central Massachusetts. Fitchburg, Lunenburg, Sterling, and North Attleborough, Massachusetts and Providence, Rhode Island were also affected by flash flooding.

This follows severe flooding in Vermont and New England in July.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

\nLeominster, Massachusetts: Leominster was the epicenter of the flooding, with widespread damage to buildings, roads, dams, and infrastructure. Evacuations took place, and numerous roads were closed. A significant number of homes and businesses in Leominster were affected by the flooding, and schools were closed.
\nFitchburg, Lunenburg, and Sterling, Massachusetts: These towns, located near Leominster, were also at risk of flash flooding.
\nNorth Attleborough, Massachusetts: North Attleborough experienced significant damage to homes and roads due to heavy rain and flooding. Approximately 200 homes were damaged.
\nProvidence, Rhode Island: In Providence, Rhode Island, there was flooding in a parking lot and parts of a shopping mall on Branch Avenue. Firefighters had to rescue stranded individuals in their cars.
Some roads in Rhode Island, and Nashua, New Hampshire were flooded.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of Wednesday, September 13, 2023, the region was still receiving rain from thunderstorms. On Thursday, the rains had abated.

Some dams sustained damage in Leominster, but they held. The city was working to reinforce them. Additionally, one dam, the Barrett Park Pond Dam, was of concern due to its poor condition.

Further intense rainstorms and associated flooding are possible in the upcoming weekend, complicating recovery efforts. Hurricane Lee may pass close to New England and Atlantic Canadian provinces on Friday night, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (5).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Leominster and North Attleborough declared states of emergency. Additionally, Governor Maura Healey declared a state of emergency in Massachusetts on September 12, 2023 (6).

Leominster, Massachusetts: There were evacuation orders in place for areas near a brook and the North Nashua River in Leominster due to concerns about the Barrett Park Pond Dam. Residents were urged to \"immediately evacuate and safely leave the area.\" Schools were closed in the city.
North Attleborough, Massachusetts: Because North Attleborough experienced significant flooding, emergency response teams were dispatched to assist residents.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","leominster-massachusetts-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/564923072590","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/leominster-massachusetts-flooding","2023-09-14T15:16:25Z",[1124,1125],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Leominster, Massachusetts Flooding",{"_10":1166,"_1130":1167,"_597":1168,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269651640398","Flooded streets in Massachusetts.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Massachusetts_Flooding_Desk_A_d5780249-c9f9-49b7-86af-968c1cd3f627.jpg?v=1753087564",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1170,"_1094":1171,"_1110":43,"_1111":43,"_1112":1172,"_1114":1173,"_962":1174,"_10":1175,"_1118":1176,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1177,"_594":1178,"_558":1179,"_1127":1180},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"What is the location of the flooding?Flooding in the Southeastern United States is being caused by Tropical Storm Idalia, which initially made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane in the Big Bend region of Florida on Thursday, August 30, 2023 (1)(2)(3). It has since moved northeastward through Georgia and into South Carolina and North Carolina.As Idalia is downgraded to a tropical storm, flooding continues to affect multiple areas along the Southeastern coast of the United States, including the Gulf Coast of Florida, southern Georgia, and parts of the Carolinas (4).Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?The flooding is affecting various cities and areas along the Southeastern coast, including: Florida: Big Bend region, Tampa, Tallahassee, Crystal River, St. Petersburg, Hudson Georgia: Valdosta South Carolina: Charleston, Edisto Beach North Carolina: Wilmington Flooding is impacting various other towns, neighborhoods, and regions in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. There are widespread power outages in all four states, boil water advisories in six Florida counties, and thousands of damaged homes.At least one man has died in Georgia and there has been one unconfirmed death related to the hurricane in Florida.What is the current status of the flooding?Tropical Storm Idalia is flooding the southeast through heavy rainfall, storm surge, and high tides. The storm has caused widespread flooding, downed trees, power outages, and damaged homes and businesses. It is expected to continue tracking northeastward, maintaining its strength and posing a risk of life-threatening flooding, particularly in areas prone to storm surge and heavy rainfall.Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?Evacuation orders were issued in several areas, and rescue efforts are underway to assist affected residents.Florida: President Joe Biden declared an emergency in Florida due to Tropical Storm Idalia, authorizing Federal assistance to supplement state and local efforts (5). Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also declared a state of emergency in 46 counties, spanning from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast (6).Evacuation notices were issued in 21 counties with mandatory orders for some residents in eight of those counties, primarily for people in low-lying and coastal areas, mobile homes, recreational vehicles, and vulnerable individuals.Georgia: Governor Brian P. Kemp issued a State of Emergency for all of Georgia in preparation for Hurricane Idalia (7). The storm system is expected to move through the state, bringing heavy rainfall and damaging winds throughout Southeast Georgia.The State Operations Center was activated to coordinate storm preparations and response. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) remained open and was monitoring the storm's progress.North Carolina: North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a State of Emergency in advance of the storm and emphasized the importance of monitoring Hurricane Idalia's course (8).South Carolina: South Carolina Governor Henry McMasters declared a State of Emergency in on August 29th in preparation for Hurricane Idalia's arrival (9). Explore the full range of HealthPro HyperHEPA air purifiers SHOP NOW How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?The first 48 to 72 hours after flooding is a critical time to dry out impacted areas. It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

Flooding in the Southeastern United States is being caused by Tropical Storm Idalia, which initially made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane in the Big Bend region of Florida on Thursday, August 30, 2023 (1)(2)(3). It has since moved northeastward through Georgia and into South Carolina and North Carolina.

As Idalia is downgraded to a tropical storm, flooding continues to affect multiple areas along the Southeastern coast of the United States, including the Gulf Coast of Florida, southern Georgia, and parts of the Carolinas (4).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The flooding is affecting various cities and areas along the Southeastern coast, including:

\nFlorida: Big Bend region, Tampa, Tallahassee, Crystal River, St. Petersburg, Hudson
\nGeorgia: Valdosta\n
\nSouth Carolina: Charleston, Edisto Beach
\nNorth Carolina: Wilmington\n

Flooding is impacting various other towns, neighborhoods, and regions in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. There are widespread power outages in all four states, boil water advisories in six Florida counties, and thousands of damaged homes.

At least one man has died in Georgia and there has been one unconfirmed death related to the hurricane in Florida.

What is the current status of the flooding?

Tropical Storm Idalia is flooding the southeast through heavy rainfall, storm surge, and high tides. The storm has caused widespread flooding, downed trees, power outages, and damaged homes and businesses. It is expected to continue tracking northeastward, maintaining its strength and posing a risk of life-threatening flooding, particularly in areas prone to storm surge and heavy rainfall.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders were issued in several areas, and rescue efforts are underway to assist affected residents.

Florida: President Joe Biden declared an emergency in Florida due to Tropical Storm Idalia, authorizing Federal assistance to supplement state and local efforts (5). Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also declared a state of emergency in 46 counties, spanning from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast (6).

Evacuation notices were issued in 21 counties with mandatory orders for some residents in eight of those counties, primarily for people in low-lying and coastal areas, mobile homes, recreational vehicles, and vulnerable individuals.

Georgia: Governor Brian P. Kemp issued a State of Emergency for all of Georgia in preparation for Hurricane Idalia (7). The storm system is expected to move through the state, bringing heavy rainfall and damaging winds throughout Southeast Georgia.

The State Operations Center was activated to coordinate storm preparations and response. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) remained open and was monitoring the storm's progress.

North Carolina: North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a State of Emergency in advance of the storm and emphasized the importance of monitoring Hurricane Idalia's course (8).

South Carolina: South Carolina Governor Henry McMasters declared a State of Emergency in on August 29th in preparation for Hurricane Idalia's arrival (9).

Explore the full range of HealthPro HyperHEPA air purifiers

\n\n\n

\n SHOP NOW\n

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

The first 48 to 72 hours after flooding is a critical time to dry out impacted areas. It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","hurricane-idalia","gid://shopify/Article/564870381646","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/hurricane-idalia","2023-08-31T18:31:37Z",[1124,1125],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Hurricane Idalia",{"_10":1181,"_1130":1182,"_597":1183,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269729824846","Flooding in Florida from Hurricane Idalia.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Florida-Floods_Desk_b80c98a6-a317-483b-98eb-5299cd2e3e61.jpg?v=1753784115",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1185,"_1094":1186,"_1110":43,"_1111":43,"_1112":1187,"_1114":1188,"_962":1189,"_10":1190,"_1118":1191,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1192,"_594":1193,"_558":1194,"_1127":1195},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"What is the location of the flooding? A flooding event occurred in the province of Nova Scotia, Canada on July 22, 2023 (1)(2)(3). It was the heaviest rain to affect the region in 50 years, inundating the province with three months’ worth of rain in 24 hours. The flooding affected various regions, including East and West Hants, Halifax Regional Municipality, Lunenburg, and Queens counties. The provincial capital, Halifax, was heavily impacted. Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? The cities, towns, and regions directly impacted by the flooding include: Halifax Regional Municipality East Hants West Hants Lunenburg Queens What is the current containment status of the flooding? As of July 24, communities are cleaning up in the aftermath of the flooding. Flood containment efforts are underway. Water levels are gradually receding in some impacted areas, but transportation challenges and damaged infrastructure remain significant concerns. Emergency crews are working to repair roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure. A temporary bridge is being constructed to help nearly 400 isolated individuals return to their destinations. Nova Scotia Power has made progress in restoring electricity to affected areas. However, the extent of the damage is described as unimaginable, and the recovery process is expected to be lengthy. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? A province-wide state of emergency has been declared in Nova Scotia and is set to last until August 5. Evacuation orders were issued for the Halifax area and other regions (4). Some communities were ordered to evacuate due to concerns about a dam breach near the St. Croix River system. As of July 24, up to 600 people were still under evacuation orders, and residents were urged to shelter in place until authorities deemed it safe to return home. For some time, more than 80,000 people were without power. The search continued for four people, including two children, who were missing after their vehicles were submerged in the floodwaters. Explore high-performance air purifiers CLICK HERE How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

A flooding event occurred in the province of Nova Scotia, Canada on July 22, 2023 (1)(2)(3). It was the heaviest rain to affect the region in 50 years, inundating the province with three months’ worth of rain in 24 hours.

The flooding affected various regions, including East and West Hants, Halifax Regional Municipality, Lunenburg, and Queens counties. The provincial capital, Halifax, was heavily impacted.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The cities, towns, and regions directly impacted by the flooding include:

Halifax Regional Municipality
East Hants
West Hants
Lunenburg
Queens

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of July 24, communities are cleaning up in the aftermath of the flooding. Flood containment efforts are underway.

Water levels are gradually receding in some impacted areas, but transportation challenges and damaged infrastructure remain significant concerns. Emergency crews are working to repair roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure. A temporary bridge is being constructed to help nearly 400 isolated individuals return to their destinations. Nova Scotia Power has made progress in restoring electricity to affected areas. However, the extent of the damage is described as unimaginable, and the recovery process is expected to be lengthy.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

A province-wide state of emergency has been declared in Nova Scotia and is set to last until August 5. Evacuation orders were issued for the Halifax area and other regions (4).

Some communities were ordered to evacuate due to concerns about a dam breach near the St. Croix River system. As of July 24, up to 600 people were still under evacuation orders, and residents were urged to shelter in place until authorities deemed it safe to return home.

For some time, more than 80,000 people were without power.

The search continued for four people, including two children, who were missing after their vehicles were submerged in the floodwaters.

Explore high-performance air purifiers

CLICK HERE

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","nova-scotia-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/564924285006","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/nova-scotia-flooding","2023-07-24T19:53:59Z",[1124,1125],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Nova Scotia Flooding",{"_10":1196,"_1130":1197,"_597":1198,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269689946190","Flooding impacting Nova Scotia, Canada.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/NovaScotia_Desk_398a00f9-5cca-4755-a64f-f523203a348d.jpg?v=1753358509",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1200,"_1094":1201,"_1110":43,"_1111":43,"_1112":1202,"_1114":1203,"_962":1204,"_10":1205,"_1118":1206,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1207,"_594":1208,"_558":1209,"_1127":-5},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"What is the location of the flooding? As of July 12, 2023, flooding in the Northeast is occurring due to heavy rain, particularly in the New England region. The flooding has impacted various states, including Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania (1)(2)(3). There are flood warnings for Connecticut (4). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? The cities and areas directly affected by the flooding include Burlington, Barre Town, Londonderry, Newport, Montpelier, Middlebury, Springfield, and Rutland in Vermont. Additionally, other areas across the state and the region have also experienced significant flooding. There are flooding alerts in Hartford and Falls River, Connecticut and Greenfield and Northampton, Massachusetts What is the current status of the flooding? The rain has stopped in some areas, but floodwaters may continue to rise. More rain is expected later in the week. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? A state of emergency has been declared in Vermont and New York. Swift water rescue teams have conducted over 100 rescues in Vermont, and numerous roads across the state have been closed due to flooding. Downtown Montpelier has been closed until at least noon on Tuesday due to floodwaters. Roads were closed in parts of the Mid-Hudson region in New York on July 10 (5). It is recommended to follow local authorities' instructions and stay updated on evacuation orders, alerts, and safety guidelines issued for the affected areas. Explore high-performance air purifiers CLICK HERE How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of July 12, 2023, flooding in the Northeast is occurring due to heavy rain, particularly in the New England region. The flooding has impacted various states, including Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania (1)(2)(3).

There are flood warnings for Connecticut (4).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The cities and areas directly affected by the flooding include Burlington, Barre Town, Londonderry, Newport, Montpelier, Middlebury, Springfield, and Rutland in Vermont. Additionally, other areas across the state and the region have also experienced significant flooding.

There are flooding alerts in Hartford and Falls River, Connecticut and Greenfield and Northampton, Massachusetts

What is the current status of the flooding?

The rain has stopped in some areas, but floodwaters may continue to rise. More rain is expected later in the week.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

A state of emergency has been declared in Vermont and New York. Swift water rescue teams have conducted over 100 rescues in Vermont, and numerous roads across the state have been closed due to flooding. Downtown Montpelier has been closed until at least noon on Tuesday due to floodwaters.

Roads were closed in parts of the Mid-Hudson region in New York on July 10 (5).

It is recommended to follow local authorities' instructions and stay updated on evacuation orders, alerts, and safety guidelines issued for the affected areas.

Explore high-performance air purifiers

CLICK HERE

\n
\n

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","vermont-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/564871987278","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/vermont-flooding","2023-07-12T18:46:46Z",[1124,1125],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Vermont Flooding",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1211,"_1094":1212,"_1110":43,"_1111":43,"_1112":1213,"_1114":1214,"_962":1215,"_10":1216,"_1118":1217,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1218,"_594":1219,"_558":1220,"_1127":1221},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"What is the location of the flooding? Alberta, Canada is flooding following heavy rains which extinguished regional wildfires. Flooding is occurring in Yellowhead County in west central Alberta (1)(2). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? The areas directly affected by the flooding include: Lower Robb: An evacuation order was issued for residents in Lower Robb, a hamlet approximately 250 kilometers west of Edmonton. Some parts of Robb are affected by the order. Cadomin: The community of Cadomin is experiencing a power outage due to snowstorms that have knocked down transmission lines. The electricity in Cadomin could be out for several days. Highway 40, south of Cadomin, is closed. Edson: The town of Edson, home to around 8,000 people, has been extensively flooded. Roads have washed out, and homes and businesses are flooded. More than a dozen homes had already flooded, and the number was expected to rise. Peers: The southern parts of Peers, a hamlet located 40 kilometers northeast of Edson, have been placed under a shelter-in-place order due to flooding. The Peers Bridge has been compromised, and emergency responders are assisting residents in leaving the area. Whitecourt: The town of Whitecourt, about 100 kilometers northeast of Edson, has declared a state of local emergency due to flooding. Evacuation orders have been issued for some riverfront properties, including the Westview Mobile Village and Sagitawah RV Park. What is the current containment status of the flooding? The current containment status of the flooding is ongoing. Rivers and creeks in the affected areas continue to overflow their banks, threatening homes and infrastructure. Emergency responders are urging residents to avoid washed-out roads, prepare for power outages, and stay away from downed power lines. The flooding situation remains dynamic, with flood watches in place for the McLeod River and Athabasca River at Whitecourt. Water levels on the Athabasca and McLeod rivers are expected to peak Tuesday evening, putting low-lying areas in Whitecourt at risk. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Residents of Lower Robb in Yellowhead County have been ordered to evacuate their homes [3]. A shelter-in-place order has been issued for southern parts of Peers, and the Peers Bridge has been compromised by flooding. In Whitecourt, evacuation orders have been issued for riverfront properties, and residents are advised to exercise extreme caution near the surging waters. Authorities are actively responding to the flooding and providing assistance to affected individuals and communities. How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

Alberta, Canada is flooding following heavy rains which extinguished regional wildfires. Flooding is occurring in Yellowhead County in west central Alberta (1)(2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The areas directly affected by the flooding include:

Lower Robb: An evacuation order was issued for residents in Lower Robb, a hamlet approximately 250 kilometers west of Edmonton. Some parts of Robb are affected by the order.
Cadomin: The community of Cadomin is experiencing a power outage due to snowstorms that have knocked down transmission lines. The electricity in Cadomin could be out for several days. Highway 40, south of Cadomin, is closed.
\nEdson: The town of Edson, home to around 8,000 people, has been extensively flooded. Roads have washed out, and homes and businesses are flooded. More than a dozen homes had already flooded, and the number was expected to rise.
Peers: The southern parts of Peers, a hamlet located 40 kilometers northeast of Edson, have been placed under a shelter-in-place order due to flooding. The Peers Bridge has been compromised, and emergency responders are assisting residents in leaving the area.
\nWhitecourt: The town of Whitecourt, about 100 kilometers northeast of Edson, has declared a state of local emergency due to flooding. Evacuation orders have been issued for some riverfront properties, including the Westview Mobile Village and Sagitawah RV Park.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

The current containment status of the flooding is ongoing. Rivers and creeks in the affected areas continue to overflow their banks, threatening homes and infrastructure. Emergency responders are urging residents to avoid washed-out roads, prepare for power outages, and stay away from downed power lines. The flooding situation remains dynamic, with flood watches in place for the McLeod River and Athabasca River at Whitecourt. Water levels on the Athabasca and McLeod rivers are expected to peak Tuesday evening, putting low-lying areas in Whitecourt at risk.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Residents of Lower Robb in Yellowhead County have been ordered to evacuate their homes [3]. A shelter-in-place order has been issued for southern parts of Peers, and the Peers Bridge has been compromised by flooding. In Whitecourt, evacuation orders have been issued for riverfront properties, and residents are advised to exercise extreme caution near the surging waters. Authorities are actively responding to the flooding and providing assistance to affected individuals and communities.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","alberta-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/564872806478","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/alberta-flooding","2023-06-20T21:08:31Z",[1124,1125],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Alberta Flooding",{"_10":1222,"_1130":1223,"_597":1224,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269767802958","Flooding in Alberta, Canada","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Canada_Flooding_Desktop_fc8f6323-ce25-4db3-b8e3-38934174af00.jpg?v=1754032857",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1226,"_1094":1227,"_1110":43,"_1111":43,"_1112":1228,"_1114":1229,"_962":1230,"_10":1231,"_1118":1232,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1233,"_594":1234,"_558":1235,"_1127":1236},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"When the waters recede after a flood, addressing indoor mold growth may not seem like the most pertinent issue. However, with only 24 – 48 hours to act before the situation can become acute, you may want to put it at the top of your list. Flood events continue to increase in frequency and severity. For example, according to a study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, global floods and extreme rainfall events have increased by more than 50% in the past ten years and are occurring at four times the rate than in 1980.1 The most significant increase in extreme flood events occurred in the northern hemisphere – 44% increase in Europe and a 21.4% in the U.S.2 It seems safe to assume that floods will continue. Extreme weather may be out of your control, but and floods are difficult to stop, but you can take action to combat indoor mold growth even as floods become more frequent. Cleaning up mold after a flood Drying your home and removing water-damaged items is the most critical step to prevent mold growth. Mold grows anywhere there is water, and homes with flood damage are likely to face substantial mold remediation issues. If your home was flooded and was not wholly dried within 24-48 hours, you should assume you have mold growth. Other tips include: Call an electrician before turning on any electricity to verify that electricity safe to turn on. Consider using a portable generator to power water-removal equipment if there is no electricity or it is not safe to turn it on. If weather permits, open windows and doors of the house to aid in the drying-out process. Use fans and dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture. Be sure to place fans at a window or door and blow the air outwards to spread mold spores. Beware of turning on any home heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems! If the HVAC system has any mold growth, turning it on will blow spores throughout the home. Prevent water outdoors from reentering your home. Be sure to clear gutters and that they drain away from the home. The ground around the home should slope downward to prevent rainwater from gathering. Be aware of health risks after a flood. It's a good idea to wait for a professional to tell you it is safe before you enter. Before starting to clean, contact your insurance company and take pictures of your home and your other belongings. Wear the IQAir® Mask for nose and mouth protection when handling moldy materials. Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid contact with mold spores. Wash or discard the clothing after every cleaning. Wear gloves and protective eyewear. Use a high-performance HEPA mold air purifier to help clean the air, even as work progresses. For example, the IQAir HealthPro® Plus can dramatically reduce airborne particulates including mold, and can also reduce or eliminate any musty odors. Although Indoor Air Quality may not seem like the most important problem during flood cleanup, standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for viruses, bacteria and mold. Ensure your health safety by making it a priority.","

When the waters recede after a flood, addressing indoor mold growth may not seem like the most pertinent issue. However, with only 24 – 48 hours to act before the situation can become acute, you may want to put it at the top of your list.

Flood events continue to increase in frequency and severity. For example, according to a study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, global floods and extreme rainfall events have increased by more than 50% in the past ten years and are occurring at four times the rate than in 1980.¹ The most significant increase in extreme flood events occurred in the northern hemisphere – 44% increase in Europe and a 21.4% in the U.S.²

It seems safe to assume that floods will continue. Extreme weather may be out of your control, but and floods are difficult to stop, but you can take action to combat indoor mold growth even as floods become more frequent.

Cleaning up mold after a flood

Drying your home and removing water-damaged items is the most critical step to prevent mold growth. Mold grows anywhere there is water, and homes with flood damage are likely to face substantial mold remediation issues.

If your home was flooded and was not wholly dried within 24-48 hours, you should assume you have mold growth.

Other tips include:

\nCall an electrician before turning on any electricity to verify that electricity safe to turn on.
\nConsider using a portable generator to power water-removal equipment if there is no electricity or it is not safe to turn it on.
\nIf weather permits, open windows and doors of the house to aid in the drying-out process. Use fans and dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture. Be sure to place fans at a window or door and blow the air outwards to spread mold spores.
\nBeware of turning on any home heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems! If the HVAC system has any mold growth, turning it on will blow spores throughout the home.
\nPrevent water outdoors from reentering your home. Be sure to clear gutters and that they drain away from the home. The ground around the home should slope downward to prevent rainwater from gathering.
\nBe aware of health risks after a flood. It's a good idea to wait for a professional to tell you it is safe before you enter.
\nBefore starting to clean, contact your insurance company and take pictures of your home and your other belongings.
\nWear the IQAir^® Mask for nose and mouth protection when handling moldy materials.
\nWear clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid contact with mold spores. Wash or discard the clothing after every cleaning.
Wear gloves and protective eyewear.
\nUse a high-performance HEPA mold air purifier to help clean the air, even as work progresses. For example, the IQAir HealthPro^® Plus can dramatically reduce airborne particulates including mold, and can also reduce or eliminate any musty odors.

Although Indoor Air Quality may not seem like the most important problem during flood cleanup, standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for viruses, bacteria and mold. Ensure your health safety by making it a priority.

","mold-after-flood","gid://shopify/Article/564861141070","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/mold-after-flood","2023-01-12T18:47:52Z",[1124,670,1125],"Mold: Your worst enemy after a flood",{"_10":1237,"_1130":1238,"_597":1239,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269290864718","Cleaning gloves cleaning mold off of walls","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Mold-After-a-Flood_Optimized_131ee85c-fb5c-4d02-9bc2-0cee40baffd3.jpg?v=1749729927",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1241,"_1094":1242,"_1110":1243,"_1111":1243,"_1112":1244,"_1114":1245,"_962":1246,"_10":1247,"_1118":1248,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1249,"_594":1250,"_558":1252,"_1127":1253},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Which molds are dangerous to your health? Learn which molds can affect your health and how to protect yourself.","What is mold? Mold is a type of fungus that often looks like fuzzy spots of different colors, including green, gray, or black. More than 100,000 mold species have been identified. Exposure to molds can be linked to negative health effects, depending on the type of mold and the health status of the person. You may have heard or read about “toxic mold.” Molds themselves are not toxic or poisonous. You may have heard or read about “toxic mold.” Molds themselves are not toxic or poisonous. However, there are mold species that are “toxigenic,” meaning they produce mycotoxins (myco- is a prefix that means fungal). Mycotoxins are chemical byproducts of metabolic processes – any process performed to maintain life, such as converting food into energy or cellular respiration. Some mycotoxins can cause a toxic response in humans and animals, even in small amounts(1). Molds reproduce by creating spores that can be too small for the naked eye to see. The spores vary in shape and range from 2 to 100 microns in size (for comparison, a strand of a human hair ranges from 17 to 181 microns in diameter). Molds release reproductive spores, which can spread through the air, water, or on animals. Mold spores can cause health issues by triggering allergies or asthma attacks. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on to survive. Molds can reproduce in any moist place. They can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods and other surfaces. General mold categories Mold species are generally categorized as one of three types: Allergenic – Unlikely to cause illness (though it may aggravate mild allergies) Pathogenic – Can cause infection in people who are immunocompromised Toxigenic – Toxic to all humans and animals who encounter it Allergenic molds Everyone breathes in airborne mold spores, but some have an allergic reaction or experience asthma symptoms. Airborne mold spores can get into the nose, causing similar symptoms to other common airborne allergens, such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, congestion, and dry skin. Mold spores can also enter the lungs, triggering an asthmatic episode. Everyone breathes in airborne mold spores. The most common molds whose spores can act as allergens include: Alternaria – This genus of molds comprises approximately 50 mold species. It is a common outdoor mold, and its spores are a common allergen. Alternaria species often appear as dark gray spots. The mold genus can grow indoors, especially on damp surfaces with a food source, such as wood. The most common Alternaria species are Alternaria and A. alternate. A. alternate is often found growing on the following indoor materials if they are damp: iron, tiles, bricks, plaster, wallpaper, paper, and canvas (2). Aspergillus – This genus of mold grows worldwide and is one of the most commonly occurring molds in hospitals. Its spores can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Aspergillus is so abundant that it is probably impossible to avoid breathing in at least some of its spores. For most people with healthy immune systems, breathing Aspergillus is not harmful. There are a few species of the genus that can cause serious illness when inhaled by people who are immunocompromised, have a lung disease such as COPD, or have asthma. The range of health issues Aspergillus may cause is known as aspergillosis. Some people will have a severe allergic response to inhaling spores of the species Aspergillus fumigatus. This immune response is called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), which causes airway inflammation (3). Cladosporium – The Cladosporium genus is one of the most widespread molds. Its spores can act as allergens, triggering reactions in sensitive people. C. herbarum is the most commonly identified allergenic species of Cladosporium(4).Indoors, Cladosporium is common on wet building materials, such as gypsum board, acrylic painted walls, wood, wallpaper, carpet and mattress dust, HVAC fans, and wet insulation in mechanical cooling units (5). Penicillium – This mold genus includes hundreds of species, some of which are used to produce the antibiotic penicillin. It is a blue-green mold that many people have seen growing on food. Some Penicillium species produce airborne spores that can act as allergens and asthma triggers for sensitive people (6). Other common molds that produce spores that can act as allergens include the genera Epicoccum, Fusarium, Helminthosporium, Mucor, Rhizopus, and Pullularia. Pathogenic molds A pathogenic mold is one that can cause an infection in humans, even if they are in good health. Some genus of molds include species that fall into the allergenic category, as well as species categorized as pathogenic. One such example is the Aspergillus genus. This genus includes several allergenic species, as well as one very pathogenic species, fumigatus. A pathogenic mold is one that can cause an infection in humans, even if they are in good health. The most common pathogenic molds include: Aspergillus species: A. fumigatus and A. flavus – A. fumigatusis the most prevalent species of the genus and is the leading cause of invasive aspergillosis and can cause chronic pulmonary infections. Although airborne A. flavus is more prevalent in some hospitals and locations, it is far less studied than A. fumigatus. A. flavus is also known to produce mycotoxins (7). Cryptococcus neoformans – This mold lives in environments worldwide. People can develop an infection after inhaling its spores, although it is extremely rare for those with healthy immune systems. If an immunocompromised person inhales spores, they can stay in the body and cause a later infection if the immune system becomes even weaker. Most cases of cryptococcal meningitis (a form of fungal meningitis) are linked to C. neoformans (8). Histoplasma capsulatum – H. capsulatum causes the infectious disease histoplasmosis. It’s acquired by inhaling airborne H. capsulatum spores. Inhaled spores can also cause a lung infection (pneumonia). Those with a weakened immune system risk the infection spreading throughout the body which can be life-threatening. This mold is usually found in soil; however, it is also found where there are bat and bird droppings. Spores usually become airborne from soil disturbances like digging or building demolition. Outbreaks are most often caused by large-scale construction projects (9). Toxigenic molds The toxigenic molds are the misnamed “toxic mold” species that may create the chemical metabolic byproducts called mycotoxins, which can cause a toxic response in humans and animals. Mycotoxins are separate from the spores molds produce for reproduction. However, these chemicals can become airborne and travel with mold spores. Researchers have demonstrated that mycotoxins also travel through the air on very small particles of dust or tiny pieces of wallpaper, which can easily be inhaled (10). Mycotoxins travel through the air on very small particles of dust or tiny pieces of wallpaper, which can easily be inhaled. It should be noted that the presence of a toxigenic mold species does not necessarily mean the presence of mycotoxins. Also, it’s not possible to know if a mold is producing mycotoxins just by looking at it (11). Some of the most commonly found toxigenic molds found growing indoors include (12)(13)(14): Fusarium species– F. solani, F. oxysporum, F. moniliforme Penicillium species– P. brevicompactum, P. chrysogenum, P. citrinum, P. corylophilum, P. cyclopium, P. expansum. P. fellutanum, P. spinulosum, and P. viridicatum Aspergillus species– A. versicolor, A. niger and A. flavus Stachybotrys chartarum– This is the notorious “black mold” that is often referenced in the media. Learn more about Stachybotrys chartarum. Get the #1 rated air purifier for mold or other allergens and asthma triggersIQAir’s HealthPro Plus BUY NOW What you can do about mold in your home The best way to control mold growth is to control moisture. Other actions you can take include: Fix any sources of water leakage. Homeowners may need a plumber or an HVAC contractor to eliminate water leaks (which is the most likely cause of the moisture on which mold is feeding). Reduce indoor humidity (optimal indoor humidity is around 40%). Use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning. Use soap and a sponge to remove visible mold. If any moldy areas are dry, lightly spray a water mist on them. This will prevent you from sending mold spores into the air during cleaning. If you use bleach, make sure it won't cause discoloration. Never mix bleach with ammonia. It will create toxic fumes. If there is excessive damage to a building or home after a flood and you are cleaning, be sure to put all cleaning materialsin a heavy duty garbage bag and seal it. Take the bag outside through the closest exit. You don’t want any spores to become airborne. How to protect yourself from mold spores and mycotoxins Wear respiratory (nose and mouth) protection when handling moldy materials. An N95 particulate respirator is recommended. Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid contact with mold spores. Wash or discard the clothing after every cleaning. Wear gloves and protective eyewear. Wear an air pollution mask, such as the KN95-certified IQAir Mask, to protect yourself from inhaling mold spores or other airborne pollutants. Using a high-performance HyperHEPA air purifier for mold can help clean the air, even as work progresses. For example, the IQAir HealthPro Plus can dramatically reduce airborne particulates including mold, and can also reduce or eliminate any musty odors. The takeaway Is mold dangerous? Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. However, if you are aware of the potential dangers and are taking the proper precautions, you can limit your risk of experiencing health effects from mold spore and mycotoxin exposure.","

What is mold? Mold is a type of fungus that often looks like fuzzy spots of different colors, including green, gray, or black. More than 100,000 mold species have been identified. Exposure to molds can be linked to negative health effects, depending on the type of mold and the health status of the person.

You may have heard or read about “toxic mold.” Molds themselves are not toxic or poisonous.

You may have heard or read about “toxic mold.” Molds themselves are not toxic or poisonous. However, there are mold species that are “toxigenic,” meaning they produce mycotoxins (myco- is a prefix that means fungal).

Mycotoxins are chemical byproducts of metabolic processes – any process performed to maintain life, such as converting food into energy or cellular respiration. Some mycotoxins can cause a toxic response in humans and animals, even in small amounts(1).

Molds reproduce by creating spores that can be too small for the naked eye to see. The spores vary in shape and range from 2 to 100 microns in size (for comparison, a strand of a human hair ranges from 17 to 181 microns in diameter). Molds release reproductive spores, which can spread through the air, water, or on animals. Mold spores can cause health issues by triggering allergies or asthma attacks.

When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on to survive. Molds can reproduce in any moist place. They can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods and other surfaces.

General mold categories

Mold species are generally categorized as one of three types:

\nAllergenic – Unlikely to cause illness (though it may aggravate mild allergies)
\nPathogenic – Can cause infection in people who are immunocompromised
\nToxigenic – Toxic to all humans and animals who encounter it

Allergenic molds

Everyone breathes in airborne mold spores, but some have an allergic reaction or experience asthma symptoms. Airborne mold spores can get into the nose, causing similar symptoms to other common airborne allergens, such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, congestion, and dry skin. Mold spores can also enter the lungs, triggering an asthmatic episode.

Everyone breathes in airborne mold spores.

The most common molds whose spores can act as allergens include:

\nAlternaria – This genus of molds comprises approximately 50 mold species. It is a common outdoor mold, and its spores are a common allergen. Alternaria species often appear as dark gray spots. The mold genus can grow indoors, especially on damp surfaces with a food source, such as wood. The most common Alternaria species are Alternaria and A. alternate. A. alternate is often found growing on the following indoor materials if they are damp: iron, tiles, bricks, plaster, wallpaper, paper, and canvas (2).
\nAspergillus – This genus of mold grows worldwide and is one of the most commonly occurring molds in hospitals. Its spores can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Aspergillus is so abundant that it is probably impossible to avoid breathing in at least some of its spores. For most people with healthy immune systems, breathing Aspergillus is not harmful. There are a few species of the genus that can cause serious illness when inhaled by people who are immunocompromised, have a lung disease such as COPD, or have asthma. The range of health issues Aspergillus may cause is known as aspergillosis. Some people will have a severe allergic response to inhaling spores of the species Aspergillus fumigatus. This immune response is called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), which causes airway inflammation (3).
\nCladosporium – The Cladosporium genus is one of the most widespread molds. Its spores can act as allergens, triggering reactions in sensitive people. C. herbarum is the most commonly identified allergenic species of Cladosporium(4).Indoors, Cladosporium is common on wet building materials, such as gypsum board, acrylic painted walls, wood, wallpaper, carpet and mattress dust, HVAC fans, and wet insulation in mechanical cooling units (5).
\nPenicillium – This mold genus includes hundreds of species, some of which are used to produce the antibiotic penicillin. It is a blue-green mold that many people have seen growing on food. Some Penicillium species produce airborne spores that can act as allergens and asthma triggers for sensitive people (6).

Other common molds that produce spores that can act as allergens include the genera Epicoccum, Fusarium, Helminthosporium, Mucor, Rhizopus, and Pullularia.

Pathogenic molds

A pathogenic mold is one that can cause an infection in humans, even if they are in good health. Some genus of molds include species that fall into the allergenic category, as well as species categorized as pathogenic. One such example is the Aspergillus genus. This genus includes several allergenic species, as well as one very pathogenic species, fumigatus.

A pathogenic mold is one that can cause an infection in humans, even if they are in good health.

The most common pathogenic molds include:

\nAspergillus species: A. fumigatus and A. flavus – A. fumigatusis the most prevalent species of the genus and is the leading cause of invasive aspergillosis and can cause chronic pulmonary infections. Although airborne A. flavus is more prevalent in some hospitals and locations, it is far less studied than A. fumigatus. A. flavus is also known to produce mycotoxins (7).
\nCryptococcus neoformans – This mold lives in environments worldwide. People can develop an infection after inhaling its spores, although it is extremely rare for those with healthy immune systems. If an immunocompromised person inhales spores, they can stay in the body and cause a later infection if the immune system becomes even weaker. Most cases of cryptococcal meningitis (a form of fungal meningitis) are linked to C. neoformans (8).
\nHistoplasma capsulatum – H. capsulatum causes the infectious disease histoplasmosis. It’s acquired by inhaling airborne H. capsulatum spores. Inhaled spores can also cause a lung infection (pneumonia). Those with a weakened immune system risk the infection spreading throughout the body which can be life-threatening. This mold is usually found in soil; however, it is also found where there are bat and bird droppings. Spores usually become airborne from soil disturbances like digging or building demolition. Outbreaks are most often caused by large-scale construction projects (9).

Toxigenic molds

The toxigenic molds are the misnamed “toxic mold” species that may create the chemical metabolic byproducts called mycotoxins, which can cause a toxic response in humans and animals. Mycotoxins are separate from the spores molds produce for reproduction. However, these chemicals can become airborne and travel with mold spores. Researchers have demonstrated that mycotoxins also travel through the air on very small particles of dust or tiny pieces of wallpaper, which can easily be inhaled (10).

Mycotoxins travel through the air on very small particles of dust or tiny pieces of wallpaper, which can easily be inhaled.

It should be noted that the presence of a toxigenic mold species does not necessarily mean the presence of mycotoxins. Also, it’s not possible to know if a mold is producing mycotoxins just by looking at it (11).

Some of the most commonly found toxigenic molds found growing indoors include (12)(13)(14):

\nFusarium species– F. solani, F. oxysporum, F. moniliforme\n
\nPenicillium species– P. brevicompactum, P. chrysogenum, P. citrinum, P. corylophilum, P. cyclopium, P. expansum. P. fellutanum, P. spinulosum, and P. viridicatum\n
\nAspergillus species– A. versicolor, A. niger and A. flavus\n
\nStachybotrys chartarum– This is the notorious “black mold” that is often referenced in the media. Learn more about Stachybotrys chartarum.

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What you can do about mold in your home

The best way to control mold growth is to control moisture. Other actions you can take include:

Fix any sources of water leakage. Homeowners may need a plumber or an HVAC contractor to eliminate water leaks (which is the most likely cause of the moisture on which mold is feeding).
Reduce indoor humidity (optimal indoor humidity is around 40%).
Use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.
Use soap and a sponge to remove visible mold.
If any moldy areas are dry, lightly spray a water mist on them. This will prevent you from sending mold spores into the air during cleaning.
If you use bleach, make sure it won't cause discoloration. Never mix bleach with ammonia. It will create toxic fumes.
If there is excessive damage to a building or home after a flood and you are cleaning, be sure to put all cleaning materialsin a heavy duty garbage bag and seal it. Take the bag outside through the closest exit. You don’t want any spores to become airborne.

How to protect yourself from mold spores and mycotoxins

Wear respiratory (nose and mouth) protection when handling moldy materials. An N95 particulate respirator is recommended.
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to avoid contact with mold spores. Wash or discard the clothing after every cleaning.
Wear gloves and protective eyewear.
Wear an air pollution mask, such as the KN95-certified IQAir Mask, to protect yourself from inhaling mold spores or other airborne pollutants.
Using a high-performance HyperHEPA air purifier for mold can help clean the air, even as work progresses. For example, the IQAir HealthPro Plus can dramatically reduce airborne particulates including mold, and can also reduce or eliminate any musty odors.

The takeaway

Is mold dangerous? Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. However, if you are aware of the potential dangers and are taking the proper precautions, you can limit your risk of experiencing health effects from mold spore and mycotoxin exposure.

","which-molds-are-most-dangerous-to-my-health","gid://shopify/Article/564862550094","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/which-molds-are-most-dangerous-to-my-health","2018-05-08T20:09:43Z",[1251,670,1125],"Allergies and Asthma","Which molds are most dangerous to my health?",{"_10":1254,"_1130":1255,"_597":1256,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/271254421582","woman holding her head feeling ill","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Molde_AQL_Desktop_b_b38bc5c6-9249-42ca-8fb0-15b7457fa30f.jpg?v=1767972913",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1258,"_1094":1259,"_1110":43,"_1111":43,"_1112":1260,"_1114":1261,"_962":1262,"_10":1263,"_1118":1264,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1265,"_594":1266,"_558":1267,"_1127":1268},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"A catastrophic storm slammed into Louisiana in early 2016, dumping up to 31 inches of rain in less than 15 hours. By the time the storm ended, Louisiana had been drenched with 7.1 trillion gallons of water – more water than landed on the state during Hurricane Katrina. As many as 60,000 homes were damaged by the storm and 13 people were killed. For the residents of homes damaged by the rainfall, the effects of the storm prevailed long after the rainfall ended. Tens of thousands of southern Louisiana residents were forced to either vacate or live in homes that were seriously damaged by flooding. For them, mold and mildew were a constant threat. With precipitation intensity and total rainfall likely to continue increasing, it’s important to know what to do for optimal mold prevention after a flood. Mold prevention: the first 24-36 hours are critical Mold and bacteria quickly thrive and spread in damp environments. Mold feeds on water. And bacteria spreads quickly if a flooded home was soaked by sewage, as often happens. Cleaning up quickly after a flood is essential for keeping a home safe and healthy, especially for those living with asthma and allergies. Mold and mildew can start growing within just 24-36 hours after a flood. And often it lurks in the areas easily forgotten about, such as the attic, basement, and crawlspaces. It’s critical to stop any additional water intrusion before cleanup efforts begin. A thorough, top-to-bottom cleaning follows. Eight tips to prevent mold Here are eight tips that can help with the cleanup efforts. Get started quickly. Mold and mildew begin growing right away, so begin the cleanup process as soon as possible. Ventilation will help. Clean and dry out the home as soon as possible. Open windows for ventilation. Fans and dehumidifiers may also help. Wear a mask. Protect yourself when cleaning by wearing rubber gloves, eye protection, and a mask. Masks rated N-95 or higher are best for situations in which mold is present. Use the right cleaning solution. Mix 1.5 cups of household bleach with 1 gallon of water to wash and disinfect areas. Never mix bleach and ammonia. The fumes are toxic. Consider removing carpets. Carpets will likely have to be removed completely. Even if they dry out, that doesn’t mean that the mold spores have gone away. If you can’t clean it, remove it. Remove porous materials such as wallboard, fiberglass and cellulose areas because they can’t be cleaned. Wear an air pollution mask when pollutants are unavoidable. Use a KN95-certified pollution protection mask, such as the IQAir Mask, to protect yourself from inhaling mold spores or other airborne pollutants. A KN95 or NIOSH N95-compliant mask can prevent up to 95% of particle pollutants from entering your airways. Use an air cleaner. A high-performance air purifier for mold spores can help clean the air, even as work progresses. For example, the IQAir HealthPro Plus can dramatically reduce airborne particulates including mold, and can also reduce or eliminate any musty odors. Know when to call the pros. This is especially true if damage was caused by sewage or contaminated water, or if mold is already extensive. Make sure any contractor has experience cleaning mold and is following EPA mold remediation guidelines. One of the most difficult parts of the mold-cleanup process might not be the physical labor, but the emotional toll of having to throw out favorite chairs, toys or family heirlooms. If there is a chance these items might be contaminated, though, it’s best to let them go. By acting quickly and taking the right steps to control mold after a flood, your home and your indoor air quality will soon be safe and healthy again. For more information, visit www.epa.gov/mold.","

A catastrophic storm slammed into Louisiana in early 2016, dumping up to 31 inches of rain in less than 15 hours. By the time the storm ended, Louisiana had been drenched with 7.1 trillion gallons of water – more water than landed on the state during Hurricane Katrina. As many as 60,000 homes were damaged by the storm and 13 people were killed.

For the residents of homes damaged by the rainfall, the effects of the storm prevailed long after the rainfall ended. Tens of thousands of southern Louisiana residents were forced to either vacate or live in homes that were seriously damaged by flooding. For them, mold and mildew were a constant threat.

With precipitation intensity and total rainfall likely to continue increasing, it’s important to know what to do for optimal mold prevention after a flood.

Mold prevention: the first 24-36 hours are critical

Mold and bacteria quickly thrive and spread in damp environments. Mold feeds on water. And bacteria spreads quickly if a flooded home was soaked by sewage, as often happens.

Cleaning up quickly after a flood is essential for keeping a home safe and healthy, especially for those living with asthma and allergies. Mold and mildew can start growing within just 24-36 hours after a flood. And often it lurks in the areas easily forgotten about, such as the attic, basement, and crawlspaces.

It’s critical to stop any additional water intrusion before cleanup efforts begin. A thorough, top-to-bottom cleaning follows.

Eight tips to prevent mold

Here are eight tips that can help with the cleanup efforts.

\n
Get started quickly. Mold and mildew begin growing right away, so begin the cleanup process as soon as possible.
\n
\n
Ventilation will help. Clean and dry out the home as soon as possible. Open windows for ventilation. Fans and dehumidifiers may also help.
\n
\n
Wear a mask. Protect yourself when cleaning by wearing rubber gloves, eye protection, and a mask. Masks rated N-95 or higher are best for situations in which mold is present.
\n
\n
Use the right cleaning solution. Mix 1.5 cups of household bleach with 1 gallon of water to wash and disinfect areas. Never mix bleach and ammonia. The fumes are toxic.
\n
\n
Consider removing carpets. Carpets will likely have to be removed completely. Even if they dry out, that doesn’t mean that the mold spores have gone away.
\n
\n
If you can’t clean it, remove it. Remove porous materials such as wallboard, fiberglass and cellulose areas because they can’t be cleaned.
\n
\n
Wear an air pollution mask when pollutants are unavoidable. Use a KN95-certified pollution protection mask, such as the IQAir Mask, to protect yourself from inhaling mold spores or other airborne pollutants. A KN95 or NIOSH N95-compliant mask can prevent up to 95% of particle pollutants from entering your airways.
\n
\n
Use an air cleaner. A high-performance air purifier for mold spores can help clean the air, even as work progresses. For example, the IQAir HealthPro Plus can dramatically reduce airborne particulates including mold, and can also reduce or eliminate any musty odors.
\n
\n
Know when to call the pros. This is especially true if damage was caused by sewage or contaminated water, or if mold is already extensive. Make sure any contractor has experience cleaning mold and is following EPA mold remediation guidelines.
\n

One of the most difficult parts of the mold-cleanup process might not be the physical labor, but the emotional toll of having to throw out favorite chairs, toys or family heirlooms. If there is a chance these items might be contaminated, though, it’s best to let them go. By acting quickly and taking the right steps to control mold after a flood, your home and your indoor air quality will soon be safe and healthy again. For more information, visit www.epa.gov/mold.

","mold-prevention-after-flood","gid://shopify/Article/564863926350","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/mold-prevention-after-flood","2017-01-03T20:41:43Z",[1251,670,1125],"8 tips for mold prevention after a flood",{"_10":1269,"_1130":1270,"_597":1271,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269291126862","flood in residential area","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/01_17_AQL_flood_750_f12adeed-f7b7-4730-998e-a715cc0965ff.jpg?v=1749732245",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1273,"_1094":1274,"_1110":1275,"_1111":1275,"_1112":1276,"_1114":1277,"_962":1278,"_10":1279,"_1118":1280,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1281,"_594":1282,"_558":1284,"_1127":1285},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Basements are ripe for mold, mildew and other Indoor Air Quality dangers. Learn how to ensure your basement (and home) is safe.","In many homes, the room with the worst air quality is the basement. Not only is the air more contaminated than anywhere else in the home, but basement air rises into the rest of the house, spreading moisture along with mold, mildew, combustion gases, volatile organic compounds and other contaminants that can damage health.While the number of single-family homes with full or partial basements is declining nationally, in colder regions most new homes still have basements. In New England, for example, 87% of new single-family homes built in 2013 had full or partial basements.For homeowners with basements, here are four air-quality dangers lurking down below, and what to do about each:Danger #1 — Moisture, mold, and mildewMoisture in the basement leads to mildew and mold, and the best way to prevent their growth is through moisture control. Unfortunately, a damp basement is common. The sources of moisture include infiltration of rainwater or groundwater through the concrete foundation, interior sources such as bathrooms and unvented clothes dryers, and humid air from outside that condenses on the cooler basement surfaces.How to prevent moisture, mold and mildew If moisture is leaking in to the basement, re-grading of earth around the exterior of the house may be necessary. Check to make sure all downspouts and gutters are discharging water at least four feet from the exterior wall. If a basement bathroom is unvented, consider adding a vent and fan that exhausts to the outside. A dehumidifier will help reduce moisture in the basement year round. Danger #2 — RadonRadon is a naturally forming, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that breaks down into radioactive elements that attach to airborne particles. Radon enters a home through cracks in the floor or walls of the basement or foundation. As many as 21,000 Americans die every year from lung cancer related to radon exposure, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.What to do about radon in the basement Every home should be tested for radon and, if necessary, a qualified radon mitigation contractor should be hired to assess radon levels and perform any necessary remediation work. Consider using a high-performance air purifier such as the IQAir HealthPro® Plus in the basement. Research by the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists showed that air filtration could reduce radon significantly. Air filtration should not be considered a substitute for radon remediation. Danger #3 — Carbon MonoxideCarbon monoxide (CO) is a highly toxic gas. It can be deadly at very low concentrations (300 parts per million). Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of combustion, so basement furnaces, water heaters and other combustion appliances can potentially be sources of carbon monoxide. Often, carbon monoxide is generated when an appliance is “backdrafting” as a result of a range hood or other high-power fan exhausting indoor air from the house upstairs.What to do about carbon monoxide in the basement Prevention is the best strategy to prevent carbon monoxide from building up in your basement. Have appliances such as furnaces and gas water heaters checked regularly by a trained professional. Whenever possible, vent appliances to the outside of the home. Danger #4 — InsulationWhether a basement is finished or unfinished, insulation is necessary because as much as 25% of a home’s total heat loss can occur in the basement. But insulation can also present a threat to air quality and health, especially if it contains asbestos.What to do about insulation in the basement In older homes, be aware that insulation may contain asbestos. If you suspect you have asbestos in the basement and it’s in good condition, the best thing to do is leave it alone. If repairs are needed, they should be performed only by a professional trained in methods for safely handling asbestos. Another potential problem with insulation is air leakage, also known as infiltration, which means outside air is leaking into the home. Air barriers such as drywall must be in direct contact with insulation or leakage will occur. Inspect and ensure that insulation is in direct contact with surfaces such as drywall or moisture can build up and heat is lost. Visit http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/technical/moisture for more information on construction specifications for managing moisture. Whether it’s finished or unfinished, a basement is an important part of a home, affecting air quality both below ground level and in the rooms above. By recognizing the potential air quality dangers lurking in your basement, you can take action to keep the indoor air throughout your home clean and healthy.","

In many homes, the room with the worst air quality is the basement. Not only is the air more contaminated than anywhere else in the home, but basement air rises into the rest of the house, spreading moisture along with mold, mildew, combustion gases, volatile organic compounds and other contaminants that can damage health.

While the number of single-family homes with full or partial basements is declining nationally, in colder regions most new homes still have basements. In New England, for example, 87% of new single-family homes built in 2013 had full or partial basements.

For homeowners with basements, here are four air-quality dangers lurking down below, and what to do about each:

Danger #1 — Moisture, mold, and mildew

Moisture in the basement leads to mildew and mold, and the best way to prevent their growth is through moisture control. Unfortunately, a damp basement is common. The sources of moisture include infiltration of rainwater or groundwater through the concrete foundation, interior sources such as bathrooms and unvented clothes dryers, and humid air from outside that condenses on the cooler basement surfaces.

How to prevent moisture, mold and mildew

If moisture is leaking in to the basement, re-grading of earth around the exterior of the house may be necessary.
Check to make sure all downspouts and gutters are discharging water at least four feet from the exterior wall.
If a basement bathroom is unvented, consider adding a vent and fan that exhausts to the outside.
A dehumidifier will help reduce moisture in the basement year round.

Danger #2 — Radon

Radon is a naturally forming, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that breaks down into radioactive elements that attach to airborne particles. Radon enters a home through cracks in the floor or walls of the basement or foundation. As many as 21,000 Americans die every year from lung cancer related to radon exposure, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

What to do about radon in the basement

Every home should be tested for radon and, if necessary, a qualified radon mitigation contractor should be hired to assess radon levels and perform any necessary remediation work.
Consider using a high-performance air purifier such as the IQAir HealthPro® Plus in the basement. Research by the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists showed that air filtration could reduce radon significantly.
Air filtration should not be considered a substitute for radon remediation.

Danger #3 — Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly toxic gas. It can be deadly at very low concentrations (300 parts per million). Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of combustion, so basement furnaces, water heaters and other combustion appliances can potentially be sources of carbon monoxide. Often, carbon monoxide is generated when an appliance is “backdrafting” as a result of a range hood or other high-power fan exhausting indoor air from the house upstairs.

What to do about carbon monoxide in the basement

Prevention is the best strategy to prevent carbon monoxide from building up in your basement.
Have appliances such as furnaces and gas water heaters checked regularly by a trained professional.
Whenever possible, vent appliances to the outside of the home.

Danger #4 — Insulation

Whether a basement is finished or unfinished, insulation is necessary because as much as 25% of a home’s total heat loss can occur in the basement. But insulation can also present a threat to air quality and health, especially if it contains asbestos.

What to do about insulation in the basement

In older homes, be aware that insulation may contain asbestos.
If you suspect you have asbestos in the basement and it’s in good condition, the best thing to do is leave it alone.
If repairs are needed, they should be performed only by a professional trained in methods for safely handling asbestos.
Another potential problem with insulation is air leakage, also known as infiltration, which means outside air is leaking into the home. Air barriers such as drywall must be in direct contact with insulation or leakage will occur.
Inspect and ensure that insulation is in direct contact with surfaces such as drywall or moisture can build up and heat is lost.
Visit http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/technical/moisture for more information on construction specifications for managing moisture.

Whether it’s finished or unfinished, a basement is an important part of a home, affecting air quality both below ground level and in the rooms above. By recognizing the potential air quality dangers lurking in your basement, you can take action to keep the indoor air throughout your home clean and healthy.

","what-causes-mildew-in-basements","gid://shopify/Article/564863336526","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/what-causes-mildew-in-basements","2016-12-05T21:59:45Z",[1251,1125,1283],"Sick Building Syndrome","What causes mildew in basements",{"_10":1286,"_1130":1287,"_597":1288,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269181288526","A basement","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/41_basement_desktop_bb1b238a-740a-4faa-9c88-be732da8403a.jpg?v=1748944864",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1290,"_1094":1291,"_1110":43,"_1111":-5,"_1112":1292,"_1114":1293,"_962":1294,"_10":1295,"_1118":1296,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1297,"_594":1298,"_558":1299,"_1127":1300},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Air purifiers are an important tool in the fight against indoor mold. That’s especially true in regions of the country where record rainfalls fell this summer. In homes and even in the outdoor air (for example, Chicago), high levels of airborne mold this summer are causing more respiratory problems than in recent history. Fortunately, homeowners can fight back against mold in their homes. High-performance air purifiers are one weapon in their arsenals.From Minnesota to Texas, schools too are facing unusually severe mold problems this year. In Jordan, Minn., an elementary school’s air conditioner malfunctioned and brought in 100 percent outdoor air on the hottest and most humid days of the summer, resulting in a $15,000 repair bill. Experts say stand-alone air purifiers can help in a situation like that because they effectively remove airborne mold spores in humid climates, and HEPA-quality filters installed in a building’s air supply ducts, return registers and fresh air supply will also help. The experts offer other tips too. Humidity control is at the top of the list.Humidity control at home begins with using exhaust fans or windows to vent humid air. Indoor humidity levels should be kept below 60 percent. Take it easy on watering the plants. And experts such as envirodetectives.com say the same HEPA technology used in a good air purifier also belongs in the vacuum cleaner that cleans your carpets and rugs. Don’t forget to use your nose: if you smell mold, there probably is mold.Air purifiers can get rid of odors and airborne mold spores, but homeowners may need a plumber or an HVAC contractor to eliminate the moisture on which mold is feeding. Meanwhile, as the rainy summer season draws near an end, the next mold-growth-inducing weather phenomenon is just around the corner: hurricane season. In areas subject to hurricanes, now is the time to consider a backflow valve on your sewage pipe to prevent high water from sending sewage into your home, Arthur Bradley, author of “The Handbook to Practical Disaster Preparedness for the Family,” told Money Magazine. Bradley also advises getting rid of processed wood or other mold-friendly materials that are sitting in the basement. And before the next wet season arrives, build your defenses.” You would be surprised at the difference a good air purifier can make to a moldy room, ” says online retailer AllergyBuyersClub.com.","

Air purifiers are an important tool in the fight against indoor mold. That’s especially true in regions of the country where record rainfalls fell this summer. In homes and even in the outdoor air (for example, Chicago), high levels of airborne mold this summer are causing more respiratory problems than in recent history. Fortunately, homeowners can fight back against mold in their homes. High-performance air purifiers are one weapon in their arsenals.

From Minnesota to Texas, schools too are facing unusually severe mold problems this year. In Jordan, Minn., an elementary school’s air conditioner malfunctioned and brought in 100 percent outdoor air on the hottest and most humid days of the summer, resulting in a $15,000 repair bill. Experts say stand-alone air purifiers can help in a situation like that because they effectively remove airborne mold spores in humid climates, and HEPA-quality filters installed in a building’s air supply ducts, return registers and fresh air supply will also help. The experts offer other tips too. Humidity control is at the top of the list.

Humidity control at home begins with using exhaust fans or windows to vent humid air. Indoor humidity levels should be kept below 60 percent. Take it easy on watering the plants. And experts such as envirodetectives.com say the same HEPA technology used in a good air purifier also belongs in the vacuum cleaner that cleans your carpets and rugs. Don’t forget to use your nose: if you smell mold, there probably is mold.

Air purifiers can get rid of odors and airborne mold spores, but homeowners may need a plumber or an HVAC contractor to eliminate the moisture on which mold is feeding. Meanwhile, as the rainy summer season draws near an end, the next mold-growth-inducing weather phenomenon is just around the corner: hurricane season. In areas subject to hurricanes, now is the time to consider a backflow valve on your sewage pipe to prevent high water from sending sewage into your home, Arthur Bradley, author of “The Handbook to Practical Disaster Preparedness for the Family,” told Money Magazine. Bradley also advises getting rid of processed wood or other mold-friendly materials that are sitting in the basement. And before the next wet season arrives, build your defenses.” You would be surprised at the difference a good air purifier can make to a moldy room, ” says online retailer AllergyBuyersClub.com.

","air-purifiers-are-mold-fighters-soggy-summer","gid://shopify/Article/564865171534","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/air-purifiers-are-mold-fighters-soggy-summer","2016-09-19T18:58:25Z",[1124,670,1125],"Air purifiers are mold fighters this soggy summer",{"_10":1301,"_1130":-5,"_597":1302,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/261439520846","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/173_mold_banner_a019be89-c451-412e-b07d-137a4df9095a.jpg?v=1702934126","pageInfo",{"_1305":71,"_1306":71,"_1307":1308,"_1309":1310},"hasPreviousPage","hasNextPage","endCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo1NjQ4NjUxNzE1MzQsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE0NzQzMTE1MDUwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6NTl9","startCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo1NjQ4OTA3NjMzNDIsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE2OTU2NjMwOTkwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6NDh9","selectedTag",{"_558":1313,"_960":43,"_597":964,"_965":1314},"IQAir News - Molds",{"_967":968,"_969":1315,"_12":1313,"_960":43,"_597":964},"Blog","categorizedArticles",{"_1318":1319,"_1355":1356,"_1456":1457,"_1523":1524,"_1594":1595},"featured",[1320,1337],{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1321,"_1094":1322,"_1110":1323,"_1111":1324,"_1112":1325,"_1114":1326,"_962":1327,"_10":1328,"_1118":1329,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1330,"_594":1331,"_558":1333,"_1127":1334},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Learn how HyperHEPA filtration captures ultrafine particles far smaller than the HEPA standard, and why that matters for indoor air quality.","

Learn how HyperHEPA filtration captures ultrafine particles far smaller than the HEPA standard, and why that matters for indoor air quality.

","Indoor air often contains a mix of pollutants that are easy to overlook—dust, pollen, smoke, and microscopic particles from traffic or combustion that can stay suspended in the air we breathe. For people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, reducing those particles indoors can make a noticeable difference in comfort and health. A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier designed to capture particles far smaller than the size standard commonly associated with HEPA filtration. In simple terms, it is built for environments where reducing ultrafine airborne particles is especially important. To understand why that matters, it helps to start with what standard HEPA filtration does well—and where higher-performance filtration can go further. What is HEPA filtration? HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are designed to trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores (1)(2). Originally developed during World War II to contain radioactive particles, HEPA technology has since become the industry standard for air purification. It works by forcing air through a dense mat of fibers, where particles are captured through a combination of interception, impaction, and diffusion. However, HEPA filters have limits. They struggle with ultrafine particles smaller than 0.3 microns, including some viruses and combustion particles. In real-world use, filtration performance also depends on the purifier’s design. If air can bypass the filter because of gaps or poor sealing, some polluted air may circulate without being filtered. In real-world use, those limitations can matter most when the air contains large amounts of ultrafine pollution—such as wildfire smoke, traffic-related combustion particles, or other high-particle events. In those situations, filter performance depends not just on the filter media itself, but also on how well the overall system is sealed. What is HyperHEPA filtration? A HyperHEPA air purifier is an air purifier built with filtration media designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than the 0.3-micron benchmark commonly associated with standard HEPA filtration. That matters because many of the particles people worry about most indoors are extremely small. Ultrafine particles from combustion, traffic pollution, smoke, and some airborne biological material can behave differently from larger dust or pollen particles, staying suspended longer and reaching deeper into the respiratory system. A HyperHEPA air purifier is not a different category of appliance from an air purifier—it is a higher-performance particle filtration approach within an air purifier. In practice, that means the purifier is designed not only around the filter media itself, but also around system sealing and airflow so that filtered air is less likely to bypass the filter. Why ultrafine particles matter Not all airborne particles behave the same way. Larger particles, like visible dust or some pollen, settle more quickly. Ultrafine particles are different: they are so small that they can stay airborne longer and move more easily through indoor spaces. That’s one reason wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related pollution can be so difficult to manage indoors. Even when the air looks clean, ultrafine particles may still be present. A higher-efficiency filtration system is designed to reduce more of those smaller particles from the air people actually breathe. How is HyperHEPA different from HEPA? When comparing HEPA and HyperHEPA filtration, the main differences come down to particle size performance and system design. Particle size range HEPA filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. This covers many common indoor particles such as dust, pollen, and mold spores. HyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, extending protection deeper into the ultrafine range. Real-world filtration performance A filter’s effectiveness depends not only on the media, but also on how well the purifier is built. If air bypasses the filter because of gaps or leakage, overall performance drops. HyperHEPA systems are typically designed with tighter sealing so that more of the air moved through the unit is actually filtered rather than escaping around the filter. This difference matters most when indoor air contains a large amount of ultrafine pollution, such as smoke, traffic-related particles, or other combustion byproducts. How to think about air purifier claims Not every air-cleaning technology works in the same way. Some systems are designed to capture pollutants, while others claim to destroy, neutralize, or transform them. That distinction matters. Physical filtration removes particles from circulation by trapping them in filter media. Other technologies may rely on chemical reactions, ionization, or light-based processes, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the pollutant, the room, and how the system is used. When evaluating an air purifier, it helps to ask a few simple questions: What pollutants is it actually designed to address? A good purifier should clearly state whether it is built for particles, gases and odors, or both. Particle filters address things like dust, pollen, smoke, and ultrafine particles; gases and VOCs require sorbent media such as activated carbon. Does it physically remove particles from the air? This is one of the clearest signs of a strong air-cleaning approach. Filtration-based systems trap particles in filter media instead of trying to alter them in the air or push them onto nearby surfaces. Does it rely on added reactive chemistry or generate byproducts? If a purifier uses ozone, ionization, or other reactive processes, it’s worth asking what else may be created along the way. A stronger approach is one that removes pollutants without adding new ones to the room. Is its performance based on clear, testable standards? Look beyond broad marketing claims. CADR can help show how quickly a purifier reduces particles in a room under short-term test conditions, but it does not tell you how performance holds up over time. CCM is useful because it reflects how well a purifier continues performing as filters load with pollutants, giving a better picture of long-term effectiveness. A stronger air purifier claim is usually a simpler one: capture pollutants efficiently, move enough air, and maintain that performance over time. Conclusion A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier built to capture extremely small airborne particles—well beyond the particle-size range most people associate with standard HEPA. That makes it especially relevant in situations where ultrafine pollution matters, such as wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related indoor air concerns. The key idea is simple: don’t look only at whether a purifier says “HEPA.” Look at how small a particle it is designed to capture, how the system is sealed, and whether the overall design supports real-world performance over time.","

Indoor air often contains a mix of pollutants that are easy to overlook—dust, pollen, smoke, and microscopic particles from traffic or combustion that can stay suspended in the air we breathe. For people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, reducing those particles indoors can make a noticeable difference in comfort and health.

A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier designed to capture particles far smaller than the size standard commonly associated with HEPA filtration. In simple terms, it is built for environments where reducing ultrafine airborne particles is especially important.

To understand why that matters, it helps to start with what standard HEPA filtration does well—and where higher-performance filtration can go further.

What is HEPA filtration?

HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are designed to trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores (1)(2).

Originally developed during World War II to contain radioactive particles, HEPA technology has since become the industry standard for air purification. It works by forcing air through a dense mat of fibers, where particles are captured through a combination of interception, impaction, and diffusion.

However, HEPA filters have limits. They struggle with ultrafine particles smaller than 0.3 microns, including some viruses and combustion particles. In real-world use, filtration performance also depends on the purifier’s design. If air can bypass the filter because of gaps or poor sealing, some polluted air may circulate without being filtered.

In real-world use, those limitations can matter most when the air contains large amounts of ultrafine pollution—such as wildfire smoke, traffic-related combustion particles, or other high-particle events. In those situations, filter performance depends not just on the filter media itself, but also on how well the overall system is sealed.

What is HyperHEPA filtration?

A HyperHEPA air purifier is an air purifier built with filtration media designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than the 0.3-micron benchmark commonly associated with standard HEPA filtration.

That matters because many of the particles people worry about most indoors are extremely small. Ultrafine particles from combustion, traffic pollution, smoke, and some airborne biological material can behave differently from larger dust or pollen particles, staying suspended longer and reaching deeper into the respiratory system.

$\"\"$

A HyperHEPA air purifier is not a different category of appliance from an air purifier—it is a higher-performance particle filtration approach within an air purifier. In practice, that means the purifier is designed not only around the filter media itself, but also around system sealing and airflow so that filtered air is less likely to bypass the filter.

Why ultrafine particles matter

Not all airborne particles behave the same way. Larger particles, like visible dust or some pollen, settle more quickly. Ultrafine particles are different: they are so small that they can stay airborne longer and move more easily through indoor spaces.

That’s one reason wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related pollution can be so difficult to manage indoors. Even when the air looks clean, ultrafine particles may still be present. A higher-efficiency filtration system is designed to reduce more of those smaller particles from the air people actually breathe.

How is HyperHEPA different from HEPA?

When comparing HEPA and HyperHEPA filtration, the main differences come down to particle size performance and system design.

Particle size range

\nHEPA filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. This covers many common indoor particles such as dust, pollen, and mold spores.
\nHyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, extending protection deeper into the ultrafine range.

Real-world filtration performance

A filter’s effectiveness depends not only on the media, but also on how well the purifier is built. If air bypasses the filter because of gaps or leakage, overall performance drops.
HyperHEPA systems are typically designed with tighter sealing so that more of the air moved through the unit is actually filtered rather than escaping around the filter.

This difference matters most when indoor air contains a large amount of ultrafine pollution, such as smoke, traffic-related particles, or other combustion byproducts.

How to think about air purifier claims

Not every air-cleaning technology works in the same way. Some systems are designed to capture pollutants, while others claim to destroy, neutralize, or transform them.

That distinction matters. Physical filtration removes particles from circulation by trapping them in filter media. Other technologies may rely on chemical reactions, ionization, or light-based processes, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the pollutant, the room, and how the system is used.

When evaluating an air purifier, it helps to ask a few simple questions:

\nWhat pollutants is it actually designed to address? A good purifier should clearly state whether it is built for particles, gases and odors, or both. Particle filters address things like dust, pollen, smoke, and ultrafine particles; gases and VOCs require sorbent media such as activated carbon.
\nDoes it physically remove particles from the air? This is one of the clearest signs of a strong air-cleaning approach. Filtration-based systems trap particles in filter media instead of trying to alter them in the air or push them onto nearby surfaces.
\nDoes it rely on added reactive chemistry or generate byproducts? If a purifier uses ozone, ionization, or other reactive processes, it’s worth asking what else may be created along the way. A stronger approach is one that removes pollutants without adding new ones to the room.
\nIs its performance based on clear, testable standards? Look beyond broad marketing claims. CADR can help show how quickly a purifier reduces particles in a room under short-term test conditions, but it does not tell you how performance holds up over time. CCM is useful because it reflects how well a purifier continues performing as filters load with pollutants, giving a better picture of long-term effectiveness.

A stronger air purifier claim is usually a simpler one: capture pollutants efficiently, move enough air, and maintain that performance over time.

Conclusion

A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier built to capture extremely small airborne particles—well beyond the particle-size range most people associate with standard HEPA. That makes it especially relevant in situations where ultrafine pollution matters, such as wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related indoor air concerns.

The key idea is simple: don’t look only at whether a purifier says “HEPA.” Look at how small a particle it is designed to capture, how the system is sealed, and whether the overall design supports real-world performance over time.

","what-is-a-hyperhepa-air-purifier","gid://shopify/Article/640810713166","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/what-is-a-hyperhepa-air-purifier","2026-04-14T16:30:40Z",[866,1124,1332,670],"Featured articles","What is a HyperHEPA air purifier?",{"_10":1335,"_1130":-5,"_597":1336,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272887283790","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/B_afb40b16-e8a9-4b1a-89a0-5ee72c36b124.jpg?v=1776184710",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1338,"_1094":1339,"_1110":1340,"_1111":1341,"_1112":1342,"_1114":1343,"_962":1344,"_10":1345,"_1118":1346,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1347,"_594":1348,"_558":1349,"_1127":1350},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Airborne pollutants can cross continents and oceans, impacting lives far from their source; learn what we can do to control transboundary pollution.","

Airborne pollutants can cross continents and oceans, impacting lives far from their source; learn what we can do to control transboundary pollution.

","Air pollution is often discussed as a local problem. However, our climate system is singular and interconnects the entire planet. The atmosphere operates without political borders, as these are a human construct. Every year, desert dust, wildfire smoke, crop burning haze, and industrial emissions travel hundreds or even thousands of miles from where they began. A pollution event in one region can shape air quality, health risks, and public warnings far away. That makes air pollution more than a domestic policy issue. It is a shared public-health challenge—one that requires collective action—better monitoring, better coordination, and a clearer understanding that the air over one country rarely belongs to that country alone. Air pollution is one of the clearest examples of how environmental risks can move across political boundaries (1). The science, monitoring tools, and policy models to respond already exist—but acting on them requires coordination that matches how the atmosphere actually works. Why air pollution becomes everyone’s problem Wind patterns, seasonal weather systems, and jet streams can carry pollution across regions, continents, and oceans. That means the health effects of a pollution source are not always felt only where emissions begin. This matters because air pollution is already a major global health risk. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution contributes to around 7 million premature deaths each year, many linked to respiratory and cardiovascular disease (2). The 2025 World Air Quality Report estimated that only 14% of global cities met recommended annual air quality guideline levels. When pollution crosses borders, it can complicate public-health warnings, blur accountability, and expose communities far from the original source. The costs are not only medical. Poor air quality can strain healthcare systems, disrupt schools and travel, reduce productivity, and create major economic losses (3). Yet despite this shared reality, air pollution is still too often treated as a domestic issue rather than a regional or global one. When desert dust travels thousands of miles One of the clearest examples of transboundary pollution is Saharan dust. Each year, powerful dust storms lift vast amounts of particles from North Africa and carry them westward across the Atlantic. In June 2020, a record-breaking Saharan dust plume—widely referred to as the “Godzilla Dust Storm”—traveled more than 5,000 miles, affecting air quality across the Caribbean, parts of the United States, Central America, and northern South America. During events like this, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations can rise sharply, increasing health risks for people with asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory vulnerabilities. (4). While Saharan dust can play ecological roles—such as fertilizing parts of the Amazon—its health impacts are also well documented. Studies have found that Saharan dust events can worsen respiratory conditions and are associated with increased respiratory health risks (5). Vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing lung disease, may face greater risk during major dust episodes. Saharan dust affects health not only across North Africa, but also in parts of Europe and the Americas. Similar long-range dust transport also affects East Asia, where desert dust can degrade air quality in China, Korea, and Japan. How seasonal haze spreads across borders Though it’s a global practice, crop burning is particularly acute in South Asia and Southeast Asia. In South Asia, annual crop residue burning primarily in India and Pakistan creates a toxic smog that blankets Nepal, Bangladesh, and beyond (6). This seasonal haze spikes PM2.5 levels, leading to school closures, flight cancellations, and thousands of hospitalizations for respiratory distress. The 2013 “Airpocalypse” in China, meanwhile, saw PM2.5 concentrations reach extreme levels and reportedly drove Beijing Children’s Hospital to treat about 7,000 patients a day (7). The smog didn’t stop at China’s borders; it drifted into South Korea and Japan and prompted calls for greater regional cooperation (8). Airborne pollutants from Chinese factories and power plants can contribute to air quality problems in East Asia and beyond. While China has made progress in reducing domestic pollution—sulfur dioxide emissions have dropped by 75% between 2013 and 2020—the transboundary nature of the issue demands broader solutions (9). Wildfire smoke travels farther than most people think Wildfire smoke is another reminder that air pollution does not stop at the border. During Canada’s record-setting 2023 wildfire season, releasing an estimated 647 teragrams of carbon. The smoke spread across North America and, at times, across the Atlantic into Europe (10)(11). That smoke degraded air quality far from the fires themselves, exposing millions to elevated PM2.5 levels and producing hazy skies in cities thousands of miles away (12). Australia’s 2019–2020 bushfires offered another striking example. Smoke from those fires circled much of the globe and was detected as far away as South America and Antarctica (13). Greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed. As the climate warms, many regions are seeing longer and more intense wildfire seasons. In some places, fires are burning hotter, spreading farther, and producing more smoke over longer periods of time. Rather than blaming neighbors, greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed. Why national policy alone is not enough National air quality laws remain essential. They help countries regulate emissions, set standards, and build enforcement systems. But they are not enough on their own when pollution regularly travels beyond the jurisdiction that produced it. That is the central mismatch in transboundary air pollution: the atmosphere moves freely, while policy usually stops at the border. Domestic laws such as the U.S. Clean Air Act remain essential for source control and enforceable standards, but they cannot fully address pollution that regularly moves across jurisdictions (14). The ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, signed in 2002, remains one of the few regional agreements focused specifically on cross-border air pollution (15). While it has fostered some cooperation—such as shared monitoring and emergency response protocols—its effectiveness is limited by national sovereignty concerns and uneven enforcement. Cross-border monitoring systems, regional directives, and international clean air initiatives offer stronger models for cooperation—especially when they combine shared data, common standards, and earlier public-health warnings (16)(17)(18). Without that kind of coordination, health warnings can come later, accountability can weaken, and communities downwind are left to manage risks they did not create. Collective action needed across borders Transboundary air pollution is a large-scale problem, but not an abstract one. The most effective responses combine earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and practical steps that reduce exposure while cutting pollution at the source. What governments can do Expanded cross-border data sharing, real-time air quality monitoring, and unified standards can improve public health responses. Strengthen legally binding treaties and agreements with clear accountability mechanisms to reduce emissions at the source. By investing in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, governments can cut pollution before it crosses borders. Enforce existing legislation and treaties to curtail industrial pollution and crop burning practices. What individuals can do Urge leaders to prioritize global air quality in climate and health agendas. Citizen-led air quality monitoring initiatives can help communities spot poor air days sooner and make better-informed choices, such as staying indoors or closing windows. Downloading a free air quality app can provide alerts when pollution levels rise On high-pollution days, running an air purifier and wearing a mask while outdoors can provide essential personal protection. Conclusion Air pollution may begin locally, but it often does not stay local. Dust, smoke, and industrial emissions can travel far beyond their source, exposing communities that had no role in creating them. That is why transboundary pollution requires more than national action alone. It requires shared data, earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and policies that reflect how the atmosphere actually works. The air people breathe is shaped not only by what happens nearby, but also by what happens upwind, across borders, and sometimes across oceans. Cleaner air depends on treating that reality as a shared responsibility.","

Air pollution is often discussed as a local problem. However, our climate system is singular and interconnects the entire planet. The atmosphere operates without political borders, as these are a human construct.

Every year, desert dust, wildfire smoke, crop burning haze, and industrial emissions travel hundreds or even thousands of miles from where they began. A pollution event in one region can shape air quality, health risks, and public warnings far away.

That makes air pollution more than a domestic policy issue. It is a shared public-health challenge—one that requires collective action—better monitoring, better coordination, and a clearer understanding that the air over one country rarely belongs to that country alone.

Air pollution is one of the clearest examples of how environmental risks can move across political boundaries (1). The science, monitoring tools, and policy models to respond already exist—but acting on them requires coordination that matches how the atmosphere actually works.

Why air pollution becomes everyone’s problem

Wind patterns, seasonal weather systems, and jet streams can carry pollution across regions, continents, and oceans. That means the health effects of a pollution source are not always felt only where emissions begin.

This matters because air pollution is already a major global health risk. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution contributes to around 7 million premature deaths each year, many linked to respiratory and cardiovascular disease (2).

The 2025 World Air Quality Report estimated that only 14% of global cities met recommended annual air quality guideline levels. When pollution crosses borders, it can complicate public-health warnings, blur accountability, and expose communities far from the original source.

The costs are not only medical. Poor air quality can strain healthcare systems, disrupt schools and travel, reduce productivity, and create major economic losses (3). Yet despite this shared reality, air pollution is still too often treated as a domestic issue rather than a regional or global one.

When desert dust travels thousands of miles

One of the clearest examples of transboundary pollution is Saharan dust. Each year, powerful dust storms lift vast amounts of particles from North Africa and carry them westward across the Atlantic.

In June 2020, a record-breaking Saharan dust plume—widely referred to as the “Godzilla Dust Storm”—traveled more than 5,000 miles, affecting air quality across the Caribbean, parts of the United States, Central America, and northern South America. During events like this, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations can rise sharply, increasing health risks for people with asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory vulnerabilities. (4).

While Saharan dust can play ecological roles—such as fertilizing parts of the Amazon—its health impacts are also well documented. Studies have found that Saharan dust events can worsen respiratory conditions and are associated with increased respiratory health risks (5). Vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing lung disease, may face greater risk during major dust episodes.

Saharan dust affects health not only across North Africa, but also in parts of Europe and the Americas. Similar long-range dust transport also affects East Asia, where desert dust can degrade air quality in China, Korea, and Japan.

How seasonal haze spreads across borders

Though it’s a global practice, crop burning is particularly acute in South Asia and Southeast Asia.

In South Asia, annual crop residue burning primarily in India and Pakistan creates a toxic smog that blankets Nepal, Bangladesh, and beyond (6). This seasonal haze spikes PM2.5 levels, leading to school closures, flight cancellations, and thousands of hospitalizations for respiratory distress.

The 2013 “Airpocalypse” in China, meanwhile, saw PM2.5 concentrations reach extreme levels and reportedly drove Beijing Children’s Hospital to treat about 7,000 patients a day (7). The smog didn’t stop at China’s borders; it drifted into South Korea and Japan and prompted calls for greater regional cooperation (8).

Airborne pollutants from Chinese factories and power plants can contribute to air quality problems in East Asia and beyond. While China has made progress in reducing domestic pollution—sulfur dioxide emissions have dropped by 75% between 2013 and 2020—the transboundary nature of the issue demands broader solutions (9).

Wildfire smoke travels farther than most people think

Wildfire smoke is another reminder that air pollution does not stop at the border. During Canada’s record-setting 2023 wildfire season, releasing an estimated 647 teragrams of carbon. The smoke spread across North America and, at times, across the Atlantic into Europe (10)(11).

That smoke degraded air quality far from the fires themselves, exposing millions to elevated PM2.5 levels and producing hazy skies in cities thousands of miles away (12).

Australia’s 2019–2020 bushfires offered another striking example. Smoke from those fires circled much of the globe and was detected as far away as South America and Antarctica (13).

Greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed.

As the climate warms, many regions are seeing longer and more intense wildfire seasons. In some places, fires are burning hotter, spreading farther, and producing more smoke over longer periods of time.

Rather than blaming neighbors, greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed.

Why national policy alone is not enough

National air quality laws remain essential. They help countries regulate emissions, set standards, and build enforcement systems. But they are not enough on their own when pollution regularly travels beyond the jurisdiction that produced it.

That is the central mismatch in transboundary air pollution: the atmosphere moves freely, while policy usually stops at the border. Domestic laws such as the U.S. Clean Air Act remain essential for source control and enforceable standards, but they cannot fully address pollution that regularly moves across jurisdictions (14).

The ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, signed in 2002, remains one of the few regional agreements focused specifically on cross-border air pollution (15). While it has fostered some cooperation—such as shared monitoring and emergency response protocols—its effectiveness is limited by national sovereignty concerns and uneven enforcement.

Cross-border monitoring systems, regional directives, and international clean air initiatives offer stronger models for cooperation—especially when they combine shared data, common standards, and earlier public-health warnings (16)(17)(18). Without that kind of coordination, health warnings can come later, accountability can weaken, and communities downwind are left to manage risks they did not create.

Collective action needed across borders

Transboundary air pollution is a large-scale problem, but not an abstract one. The most effective responses combine earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and practical steps that reduce exposure while cutting pollution at the source.

What governments can do

Expanded cross-border data sharing, real-time air quality monitoring, and unified standards can improve public health responses.
Strengthen legally binding treaties and agreements with clear accountability mechanisms to reduce emissions at the source.
By investing in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, governments can cut pollution before it crosses borders.
Enforce existing legislation and treaties to curtail industrial pollution and crop burning practices.

What individuals can do

Urge leaders to prioritize global air quality in climate and health agendas.
\nCitizen-led air quality monitoring initiatives can help communities spot poor air days sooner and make better-informed choices, such as staying indoors or closing windows.
\nDownloading a free air quality app can provide alerts when pollution levels rise
On high-pollution days, running an air purifier and wearing a mask while outdoors can provide essential personal protection.

Conclusion

Air pollution may begin locally, but it often does not stay local. Dust, smoke, and industrial emissions can travel far beyond their source, exposing communities that had no role in creating them.

That is why transboundary pollution requires more than national action alone. It requires shared data, earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and policies that reflect how the atmosphere actually works.

The air people breathe is shaped not only by what happens nearby, but also by what happens upwind, across borders, and sometimes across oceans. Cleaner air depends on treating that reality as a shared responsibility.

","one-planet-one-climate-system","gid://shopify/Article/641100578894","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/one-planet-one-climate-system","2026-04-13T16:37:20Z",[1124,655,1332],"One planet, one climate system: Transboundary pollution requires collective action",{"_10":1351,"_1130":-5,"_597":1352,"_1133":1353,"_490":1354},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272868999246","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/A_14d48647-0d54-411d-9484-c7942b27563b.jpg?v=1776098281",839,674,"latest",[1357,1374,1392,1408,1424,1440],{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1358,"_1094":1359,"_1110":1360,"_1111":1361,"_1112":1362,"_1114":1363,"_962":1364,"_10":1365,"_1118":1366,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1367,"_594":1368,"_558":1369,"_1127":1370},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Understand the causes and outlook of air pollution in Greater Cairo and how it impacts public health.","

Understand the causes and outlook of air pollution in Greater Cairo and how it impacts public health.

","Is the air quality good in Cairo? As of April 17, 2026, 2:30 PM (local time, GMT+2), Cairo, Egypt, is experiencing poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index exceeding 150, placing conditions in the unhealthy range. Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. Cairo ranked as the most polluted major city in the world on Friday morning. Click here for a real-time air quality map of Cairo. While the air quality conditions today are poor, it is important to note that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for Cairo was 40.8 µg/m³, equating to an AQI of 113 (“unhealthy for sensitive groups”), which is 8.1 times the WHO guideline of 5 µg/m³. Cairo, Egypt ranked as the most polluted major city on April 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM local time. Source: IQAir. When will air quality improve in Cairo? Air quality in Cairo is expected to gradually improve over the weekend. Hourly air quality forecast for Cairo, Egypt April 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM local time. Source: IQAir. Long-term improvement depends on sustained environmental policies and emission reduction strategies currently under development. Air quality map of Cairo, Egypt on April 17, 2026. Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Cairo? Poor air quality in Greater Cairo is driven by a complex mix of local and regional pollution sources. Key contributors include: Industrial emissions such as coal combustion, lead, and copper smelting Vehicular emissions from traffic and non-exhaust sources like brake and tire wear Open burning of waste and biomass Construction dust and transported desert dust Industrial and traffic sources together contribute significantly to health risks, despite representing a smaller portion of total particulate mass (1). Additionally, large-scale urban initiatives are underway to reduce emissions and transition toward cleaner energy and sustainable growth (2). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Cairo?

As of April 17, 2026, 2:30 PM (local time, GMT+2), Cairo, Egypt, is experiencing poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index exceeding 150, placing conditions in the unhealthy range.

Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. Cairo ranked as the most polluted major city in the world on Friday morning.

Click here for a real-time air quality map of Cairo.

While the air quality conditions today are poor, it is important to note that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for Cairo was 40.8 µg/m³, equating to an AQI of 113 (“unhealthy for sensitive groups”), which is 8.1 times the WHO guideline of 5 µg/m³.

$\"\"$ Cairo, Egypt ranked as the most polluted major city on April 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM local time. Source: IQAir.

When will air quality improve in Cairo?

Air quality in Cairo is expected to gradually improve over the weekend.

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Cairo, Egypt April 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM local time. Source: IQAir.

Long-term improvement depends on sustained environmental policies and emission reduction strategies currently under development.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Cairo, Egypt on April 17, 2026. Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Cairo?

Poor air quality in Greater Cairo is driven by a complex mix of local and regional pollution sources.

Key contributors include:

Industrial emissions such as coal combustion, lead, and copper smelting
Vehicular emissions from traffic and non-exhaust sources like brake and tire wear
Open burning of waste and biomass
Construction dust and transported desert dust
\n

Industrial and traffic sources together contribute significantly to health risks, despite representing a smaller portion of total particulate mass (1).

Additionally, large-scale urban initiatives are underway to reduce emissions and transition toward cleaner energy and sustainable growth (2).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","cairo-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-4-17-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641385103438","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/cairo-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-4-17-2026","2026-04-17T13:21:55Z",[1124,655],"April 17, 2026: Cairo among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_10":1371,"_1130":1372,"_597":1373,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272925065294","Polluted skies over Cairo","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/CairoDesktop_0914091c-d2c9-4cce-bb19-56242fa63a48.jpg?v=1776432871",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1375,"_1094":1376,"_1110":1377,"_1111":1378,"_1112":1379,"_1114":1380,"_962":1381,"_10":1382,"_1118":1383,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1384,"_594":1385,"_558":1387,"_1127":1388},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Find out more about the Smoke Show Fire currently active in Mississippi and its impact on surrounding areas.","

Find out more about the Smoke Show Fire currently active in Mississippi and its impact on surrounding areas.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire is an active wildfire burning near New Augusta in Perry County, Mississippi. Located in the southeastern region of the state, the fire is being closely monitored through national tracking systems, including the National Interagency Fire Center. Which cities or areas are affected by the Smoke Show Fire? The cities and areas affected by the Smoke Show Fire include: New Augusta Perry County What is the current containment status of the Smoke Show Fire? As of April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire has burned 4,896.2 acres and remains 0% contained. Fire response efforts are being led by the U.S. Forest Service in coordination with the Mississippi Interagency Coordination Center, though detailed progress on containment operations has not been publicly disclosed. (2) Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? There are no reported mandatory evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, or active emergency alerts associated with the Smoke Show Fire. Additionally, there are no confirmed road closures, shelter activations, or curfew measures in place. Residents are encouraged to remain informed through local emergency management authorities for any potential updates. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of April 16, 2026, this fire is 0% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire is an active wildfire burning near New Augusta in Perry County, Mississippi.

Located in the southeastern region of the state, the fire is being closely monitored through national tracking systems, including the National Interagency Fire Center.

Which cities or areas are affected by the Smoke Show Fire?

The cities and areas affected by the Smoke Show Fire include:

New Augusta
Perry County

What is the current containment status of the Smoke Show Fire?

As of April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire has burned 4,896.2 acres and remains 0% contained.

Fire response efforts are being led by the U.S. Forest Service in coordination with the Mississippi Interagency Coordination Center, though detailed progress on containment operations has not been publicly disclosed. (2)

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There are no reported mandatory evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, or active emergency alerts associated with the Smoke Show Fire.

Additionally, there are no confirmed road closures, shelter activations, or curfew measures in place. Residents are encouraged to remain informed through local emergency management authorities for any potential updates.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of April 16, 2026, this fire is 0% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-smoke-show-fire-mississippi","gid://shopify/Article/641370521678","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-smoke-show-fire-mississippi","2026-04-16T09:01:59Z",[1124,655,1386],"Wildfire","Wildfire Map Spotlight: Smoke Show Fire, Mississippi",{"_10":1389,"_1130":1390,"_597":1391,"_1133":1353,"_490":1354},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272920281166","Forest wrapped in a haze of smoke","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire8Desktop_e63372d4-40ee-4e96-96f5-d12f4bad97c2.jpg?v=1776406141",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1393,"_1094":1394,"_1110":1395,"_1111":1396,"_1112":1397,"_1114":1398,"_962":1399,"_10":1400,"_1118":1401,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1402,"_594":1403,"_558":1404,"_1127":1405},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Chiang Mai records unhealthy air with AQI above 150 due to seasonal burning and haze. Learn more about causes and expected improvements.","

Chiang Mai records unhealthy air with AQI above 150 due to seasonal burning and haze. Learn more about causes and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in Chiang Mai? As of April 16, 2026, 2:30 PM (local time, GMT+7) Chiang Mai is experiencing poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index exceeding 150, placing conditions in the unhealthy range. Elevated PM2.5 concentrations are the primary pollutant, contributing to dense haze and reduced visibility across the region. Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Chiang Mai’s air quality map. While pollution levels are currently elevated, long-term data suggest more moderate conditions overall. In 2025, Chiang Mai recorded an average PM2.5 concentration of 18.2 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 63, placing it in the Moderate category and 3.6 times above the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. Air quality map of Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Chiang Mai? Short-term improvements depend largely on weather changes. Stronger winds and rainfall can help disperse accumulated pollutants and reduce PM2.5 concentrations. However, during the late dry season in northern Thailand, air quality often remains poor due to persistent haze and limited atmospheric mixing. Pollution levels may continue to fluctuate in the coming days, with more noticeable improvement expected only when consistent rainfall arrives and regional burning activity declines (1). Hourly air quality forecast for Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Chiang Mai? Air pollution in Chiang Mai is primarily driven by seasonal biomass burning across northern Thailand and neighboring countries. Agricultural burning, forest fires, and land clearing release large volumes of smoke and fine particulate matter, which can travel long distances and accumulate over the region (2). Local sources also contribute to the problem. Vehicle emissions, urban activities, and small-scale industries add to PM2.5 levels, especially in densely populated areas. The region’s mountainous geography further exacerbates pollution by trapping air masses and limiting dispersion (3). Dry season conditions, including low wind speeds and minimal rainfall, allow pollutants to build up and persist, leading to recurring haze episodes each year. How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Chiang Mai?

As of April 16, 2026, 2:30 PM (local time, GMT+7) Chiang Mai is experiencing poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index exceeding 150, placing conditions in the unhealthy range.

Elevated PM2.5 concentrations are the primary pollutant, contributing to dense haze and reduced visibility across the region.

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Chiang Mai’s air quality map.

While pollution levels are currently elevated, long-term data suggest more moderate conditions overall. In 2025, Chiang Mai recorded an average PM2.5 concentration of 18.2 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 63, placing it in the Moderate category and 3.6 times above the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.

$\"\"$ Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Chiang Mai?

Short-term improvements depend largely on weather changes. Stronger winds and rainfall can help disperse accumulated pollutants and reduce PM2.5 concentrations. However, during the late dry season in northern Thailand, air quality often remains poor due to persistent haze and limited atmospheric mixing. Pollution levels may continue to fluctuate in the coming days, with more noticeable improvement expected only when consistent rainfall arrives and regional burning activity declines (1).

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Chiang Mai?

Air pollution in Chiang Mai is primarily driven by seasonal biomass burning across northern Thailand and neighboring countries. Agricultural burning, forest fires, and land clearing release large volumes of smoke and fine particulate matter, which can travel long distances and accumulate over the region (2).

Local sources also contribute to the problem. Vehicle emissions, urban activities, and small-scale industries add to PM2.5 levels, especially in densely populated areas. The region’s mountainous geography further exacerbates pollution by trapping air masses and limiting dispersion (3).

Dry season conditions, including low wind speeds and minimal rainfall, allow pollutants to build up and persist, leading to recurring haze episodes each year.

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","chiang-mai-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-4-16-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641370226766","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/chiang-mai-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-4-16-2026","2026-04-16T08:06:02Z",[1124,655],"April 16, 2026: Chiang Mai among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_10":1406,"_1130":-5,"_597":1407,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272909107278","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/ChiangMaiDesktop_98648d1b-fc97-4573-81c9-1a3e9d993e5e.jpg?v=1776326769",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1409,"_1094":1410,"_1110":1411,"_1111":1412,"_1112":1413,"_1114":1414,"_962":1415,"_10":1416,"_1118":1417,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1418,"_594":1419,"_558":1420,"_1127":1421},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"China grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

China grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in China? As of April 16, 2026, air quality in China remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 1:00 PM (Chinese Standard Time, UTC+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025. Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China? As of April 16, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Aksu Baise Beijing Changchun Chengde Hebi Jinzhou Tangshan Tianjin Xinxiang Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map. Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in China? With spring now underway, the end of the coal-fired heating season should bring some relief, as heating-related emissions begin to ease. However, March and April bring their own challenge: this period has the highest frequency of sand and dust weather, with storms primarily originating from Mongolia, capable of spiking PM10 concentrations several fold. More sustained improvement is expected by late April to May, as warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and spring rainfall help disperse pollutants. Lasting progress still depends on continued emission controls and cleaner energy adoption (1). What is causing poor air quality in China? The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emission, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (2). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to frequent dust storms from the Gobi Desert, Taklimakan Desert, and Inner Mongolian Plateau, causing sudden PM10 spikes. Higher temperature and humidity levels rise, and winds contribute to the smog by carrying pollutants from industrialized regions. Resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, and transboundary pollution also contribute. Meteorological conditions favor the mobilization and transport of dust in spring (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in China?

As of April 16, 2026, air quality in China remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 1:00 PM (Chinese Standard Time, UTC+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China?

As of April 16, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in China?

With spring now underway, the end of the coal-fired heating season should bring some relief, as heating-related emissions begin to ease. However, March and April bring their own challenge: this period has the highest frequency of sand and dust weather, with storms primarily originating from Mongolia, capable of spiking PM10 concentrations several fold.

More sustained improvement is expected by late April to May, as warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and spring rainfall help disperse pollutants. Lasting progress still depends on continued emission controls and cleaner energy adoption (1).

What is causing poor air quality in China?

The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emission, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (2).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to frequent dust storms from the Gobi Desert, Taklimakan Desert, and Inner Mongolian Plateau, causing sudden PM10 spikes. Higher temperature and humidity levels rise, and winds contribute to the smog by carrying pollutants from industrialized regions.

Resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, and transboundary pollution also contribute. Meteorological conditions favor the mobilization and transport of dust in spring (3).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","china-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/637998563406","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/china-air-quality-alert","2026-04-16T05:01:18Z",[1124,655],"China Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1422,"_1130":-5,"_597":1423,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272905896014","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/BeijingDesktop_4a227499-d0f8-457c-b33c-46d0da0bc051.jpg?v=1776315683",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1425,"_1094":1426,"_1110":1427,"_1111":1428,"_1112":1429,"_1114":1430,"_962":1431,"_10":1432,"_1118":1433,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1434,"_594":1435,"_558":1436,"_1127":1437},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Extensive flooding has caused most Michigan counties to enter a flood watch. Learn more about what is causing the Michigan floods.","

Extensive flooding has caused most Michigan counties to enter a flood watch. Learn more about what is causing the Michigan floods.

","What is the location of the flooding? On April 15, 2026, intense rainfall on top of saturated snowy grounds has caused extensive flooding across northern and southwestern areas of Michigan. With an earlier onset of spring and warmer weather, previous snowfall melted at quick rates. On top of the rainy conditions, the excess water has caused small dam failures, an overflow of rivers and streams, as well as road closures (1). Counties across Michigan and neighboring states have received flood watch warnings including eastern Wisconsin, northern Indiana, northwestern Ohio, and northeastern Illinois (2). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Most communities experiencing significant flooding are located near riverbanks or streams that have become overflown by flood water, including (3): River Oak, near Au Sable River Sherman, near Manistee River Evart, near Muskegon River Newaygo and Bridgeton, near Muskegon River Excess flooding usually collects and drains into larger bodies of water, creating massive overflow that has caused the damage and breakage of a few small, unregulated dams. What is the current containment status of the flooding? On April 15, 2026, the flood is ongoing as rainfall continues to feed into the overflow of water. Michigan has seen up to 2.5 inches of rainfall since Tuesday and is expected to receive an additional 3 inches over the next two days. County officials are preparing structures for impact, stacking sandbags along dams to reinforce the walls containing the excess water. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide energy emergency, suspending some regulations to allow for faster response time (4). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? County authorities across the state have issued individual warnings to various communities and begun evacuations for flood-prone areas. Almost the entire state has entered a flood watch warning or received evacuation notices. In Cheboygan, Michigan state troopers visited residents door-to-door to warn people and ensure everyone is aware of evacuation orders in place. Cheboygan County is located near Little Black River, which has caused a flooding for residents living in lower regions of the community (5). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

On April 15, 2026, intense rainfall on top of saturated snowy grounds has caused extensive flooding across northern and southwestern areas of Michigan. With an earlier onset of spring and warmer weather, previous snowfall melted at quick rates. On top of the rainy conditions, the excess water has caused small dam failures, an overflow of rivers and streams, as well as road closures (1).

Counties across Michigan and neighboring states have received flood watch warnings including eastern Wisconsin, northern Indiana, northwestern Ohio, and northeastern Illinois (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Most communities experiencing significant flooding are located near riverbanks or streams that have become overflown by flood water, including (3):

River Oak, near Au Sable River
Sherman, near Manistee River
\nEvart, near Muskegon River
\nNewaygo and Bridgeton, near Muskegon River

Excess flooding usually collects and drains into larger bodies of water, creating massive overflow that has caused the damage and breakage of a few small, unregulated dams.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

On April 15, 2026, the flood is ongoing as rainfall continues to feed into the overflow of water. Michigan has seen up to 2.5 inches of rainfall since Tuesday and is expected to receive an additional 3 inches over the next two days. County officials are preparing structures for impact, stacking sandbags along dams to reinforce the walls containing the excess water. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide energy emergency, suspending some regulations to allow for faster response time (4).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

County authorities across the state have issued individual warnings to various communities and begun evacuations for flood-prone areas. Almost the entire state has entered a flood watch warning or received evacuation notices. In Cheboygan, Michigan state troopers visited residents door-to-door to warn people and ensure everyone is aware of evacuation orders in place. Cheboygan County is located near Little Black River, which has caused a flooding for residents living in lower regions of the community (5).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-michigan-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/641367310414","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-michigan-flooding","2026-04-15T21:16:48Z",[1124,655,1125],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Michigan Flooding",{"_10":1438,"_1130":-5,"_597":1439,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272903209038","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Flooding3Desktop_ae4ce3b2-5ee0-47ab-b7c4-f2183e4a60be.jpg?v=1776289283",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1441,"_1094":1442,"_1110":1443,"_1111":1444,"_1112":1445,"_1114":1446,"_962":1447,"_10":1448,"_1118":1449,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1450,"_594":1451,"_558":1452,"_1127":1453},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Pakistan grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

Pakistan grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in Pakistan? As of April 15, 2026, air quality in some parts of Pakistan remains poor, with major cities experiencing \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" levels and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 10:30 AM (Pakistan Standard Time), some urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, Pakistan’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 67.3 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 156, classified as “unhealthy.” This level is nearly 14 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, making Pakistan the most polluted country. Air quality map of Pakistan and neighboring countries, as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Pakistan? As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across Pakistan are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Faisalabad Lahore Multan Rahim Yar Khan Sargodha Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Pakistan's air quality map. Lahore ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Pakistan? Short-term improvements depend on weather. Wind, rain, and stronger mixing can lower concentrations within days. In spring (March-May), as temperatures increase, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5. Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2). What is causing poor air quality in Pakistan? The root causes of air pollution in Pakistan include industrial emissions, vehicular exhausts, agricultural practices like overuse of fertilizers and crop residue burning, biomass and waste burning, domestic fires, and urbanization (3). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollen particles and allergens. Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (4). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Pakistan?

As of April 15, 2026, air quality in some parts of Pakistan remains poor, with major cities experiencing \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" levels and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 10:30 AM (Pakistan Standard Time), some urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, Pakistan’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 67.3 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 156, classified as “unhealthy.” This level is nearly 14 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³, making Pakistan the most polluted country.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Pakistan and neighboring countries, as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Pakistan?

As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across Pakistan are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Pakistan's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Lahore ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Pakistan?

Short-term improvements depend on weather. Wind, rain, and stronger mixing can lower concentrations within days. In spring (March-May), as temperatures increase, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5.

Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2).

What is causing poor air quality in Pakistan?

The root causes of air pollution in Pakistan include industrial emissions, vehicular exhausts, agricultural practices like overuse of fertilizers and crop residue burning, biomass and waste burning, domestic fires, and urbanization (3).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollen particles and allergens. Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (4).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","pakistan-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/637975527502","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/pakistan-air-quality-alert","2026-04-15T05:33:57Z",[1124,655],"Pakistan Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1454,"_1130":-5,"_597":1455,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272901275726","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/KarachiDesktop_735344e9-1572-4404-8886-f211f546eb3b.jpg?v=1776268438","popular",[1458,1475,1491,1507],{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1459,"_1094":1460,"_1110":1461,"_1111":1461,"_1112":1462,"_1114":1463,"_962":1464,"_10":1465,"_1118":1466,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1467,"_594":1468,"_558":1470,"_1127":1471},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Learn why wildfire smoke poses a health risk to people living far downwind and what you can do to help protect yourself.","When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation. The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation. Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways: by robbing it of oxygen through particulate matter irritation Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.1 Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke. What’s in wildfire smoke? Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire. Wildfire smoke often contains: water vapor particulate matter trace minerals carbon dioxide carbon monoxide nitrogen oxides hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O3) levels volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants) Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body. Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including: the types of wood and vegetation burning the moisture content the fire temperature wind conditions other weather-related influences The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health. Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs. The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body. Clean the air with high-performance air filtration Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers Click here Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:2 Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition. Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population. Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease. Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk. Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.3 The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.4 Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.5 The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition. How wildfire smoke behaves Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as: weather geographical terrain the stage of the fire wind Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you. Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact. Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts. Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.6 Wildfire safety tips Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires. Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires. Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available. Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help. Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants. Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO2 from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire. Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO2, and NO2, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health. Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions. During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air. The takeaway Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source. Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks. By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.","

When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation.

The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.

Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways:

by robbing it of oxygen
through particulate matter irritation

Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.¹

Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke.

What’s in wildfire smoke?

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire.

Wildfire smoke often contains:

\n
water vapor
\n
\n
particulate matter
\n
\n
trace minerals
\n
\n
carbon dioxide
\n
\n
carbon monoxide
\n
\n
nitrogen oxides
\n
\n
hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O₃) levels
\n
\n
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants)
\n

Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body.

$\"What's$

Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir

Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including:

\n
the types of wood and vegetation burning
\n

\n
the moisture content
\n
\n
the fire temperature
\n
\n
wind conditions
\n
\n
other weather-related influences
\n

The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health.

Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs.

The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body.

\n \n

\n\n

Clean the air with high-performance air filtration
Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers

\n\n

Click here

Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations

Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:²

\n
Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition.
\n
\n
Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population.
\n
\n
Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease.
\n
\n
Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk.
\n
\n
Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia.
\n

Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.³

The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.⁴

Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.⁵ The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition.

 Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition.

How wildfire smoke behaves

Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as:

\n
weather
\n
\n
geographical terrain
\n
\n
the stage of the fire
\n
\n
wind
\n

Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you.

$\"placeholder$

Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact.

Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts.

Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.⁶

Wildfire safety tips

Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires.

\n
Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires.
\n
\n
Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available.
\n
\n
Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help.
\n
\n
Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants.
\n
\n
Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO₂ from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire.
\n
\n
Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO₂, and NO₂, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health.
\n

$\"Google$ $\"App$ $\"Android\"$

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air.

The takeaway

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source.

Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks.

By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.

","how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/564925399118","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","2022-12-29T21:46:38Z",[1124,655,1469,680],"Popular articles","How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_10":1472,"_1130":1473,"_597":1474,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269290668110","Wildfire at night in hills","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_21_WildfireDesktop_a_a1b7068f-eca7-44cf-a3d2-95dbd136001a.jpg?v=1749726938",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1476,"_1094":1477,"_1110":1478,"_1111":1478,"_1112":1479,"_1114":1480,"_962":1481,"_10":1482,"_1118":1483,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1484,"_594":1485,"_558":1486,"_1127":1487},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"How can you know what air purifier manufacturers to trust? Let's look more critically at air purification.","The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification. But not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction. What should I look for in an air purifier? Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier. 1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry. What is a HEPA filter? High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market. But it wasn’t always that way. Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1). Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2). HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants. In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3). Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size. 2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal. All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA. To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4). The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5). So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6). Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less. Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media. 3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA. While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air. Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in. How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think: Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen. Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields. Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter). Air passes through the activated carbon bed. Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area. Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8). Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to. The takeaway Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are: HyperHEPA media for particle filtration No system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing Activated carbon for gas and odor filtration But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier. What should I avoid in an air purifier? When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited. But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase. So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health. Ionizer air purifiers Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture. Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10). But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12): Ionizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions. Ionizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations. Verdict Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.” Ozone Generators It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13). Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm. However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18): Ozone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases. Ozone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children. Indoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks. Verdict Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets. UV Light Purifiers Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20). One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI. In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21). But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26): Bacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful. Some bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light. UV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5. Many UV air purifiers produce ozone. UV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer. Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter. Verdict Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated. What do I do now? At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system. So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality: Get a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence. Use advanced gas-phase filtration. Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon. The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration. Use a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere. Install a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality. Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs. The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.","

The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification.

But not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction.

What should I look for in an air purifier?

Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier.

$\"Air$

1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry.

What is a HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market.

But it wasn’t always that way.

Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1).

Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2).

HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants.

In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3).

Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.

The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems.

Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size.

2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal.

All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA.

To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4).

The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5).

So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6).

Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less.

Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media.

3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA.

While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air.

Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in.

How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think:

Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen.
Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields.
Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter).
Air passes through the activated carbon bed.
Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area.

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8).

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes.

Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to.

The takeaway

Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are:

\nHyperHEPA media for particle filtration
\nNo system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing
\nActivated carbon for gas and odor filtration

But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier.

What should I avoid in an air purifier?

When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited.

But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase.

So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health.

Ionizer air purifiers

Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture.

Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10).

But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12):

\nIonizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions.
\nIonizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. \n

Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations.

Verdict

Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.”

Ozone Generators

It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13).

Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm.

However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18):

\nOzone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases.
\nOzone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children.
\nIndoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks.

Verdict

Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets.

UV Light Purifiers

Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20).

One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI.

In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21).

But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26):

\nBacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful.
\nSome bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light.
\nUV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5.
Many UV air purifiers produce ozone.
\nUV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer.

Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter.

Verdict

Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated.

What do I do now?

At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system.

So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality:

\nGet a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence.
\nUse advanced gas-phase filtration.\n
- Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon.
- The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration.
\n
\nUse a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere.
\nInstall a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality.

Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs.

The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.

","do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/564925431886","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","2022-01-02T14:14:32Z",[866,670,1469],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_10":1488,"_1130":1489,"_597":1490,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/270220755022","Close-up of what appears to be a room air purifier with some plants in the background (another indoor air purifying tool that has been shown to be ineffective in improving indoor air quality).","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_misconceptions-about-air-purifiers_993189ad-b0e5-4283-84af-8cf2c530fc4d.jpg?v=1758212556",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1492,"_1094":1493,"_1110":1494,"_1111":1494,"_1112":1495,"_1114":1496,"_962":1497,"_10":1498,"_1118":1499,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1500,"_594":1501,"_558":1502,"_1127":1503},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"They look great on your nightstand, but are they worth their salt as air purifiers? Learn more.","Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?Again, two words: negative ionization.If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.1 Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.2The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O3).There are two main types of ozone: Stratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Tropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke. Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including: Coughing Wheezing Trouble breathing Stuffy nose Dizziness Tingling in arms and legs Fever3,4 Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:5 Stable air temperature Moderate to high humidity Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium Lack of airborne pollutants Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.6Take the claims with a grain of...well, saltSo here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead: Be aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes. Control sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions. Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%. Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites. Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas. Ventilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels. Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good. Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking. Use an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone. Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.","

Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.

These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.

They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.

But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.

A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.

And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.

Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?

Again, two words: negative ionization.

If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.

In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.

This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.¹ Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.

The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.

Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.²

The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.

And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O₃).

There are two main types of ozone:

\nStratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
\nTropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke.

Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.

If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including:

Coughing
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Stuffy nose
Dizziness
Tingling in arms and legs
Fever^3,4\n

Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.

So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.

So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?

So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?

The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.

Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:⁵

Stable air temperature
Moderate to high humidity
Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium
Lack of airborne pollutants

Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.⁶

Take the claims with a grain of...well, salt

So here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.

But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.

You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead:

\nBe aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes.
\nControl sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions.\n\n\t
- Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%.
- Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites.
- Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas.
\n\n\t
\nVentilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels.\n\n\t
- Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good.
- Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking.
\n\n\t
\nUse an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone.

Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.
\n\n

","himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/564925366350","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","2019-06-17T13:49:29Z",[1124,670,1469],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_10":1504,"_1130":1505,"_597":1506,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269475545166","Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_HimalayanSalt_061419_750_0b979b61-4b6f-4eeb-8061-88996d52278e.jpg?v=1751543619",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1508,"_1094":1509,"_1110":1510,"_1111":1510,"_1112":1511,"_1114":1512,"_962":1513,"_10":1514,"_1118":1515,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1516,"_594":1517,"_558":1518,"_1127":1519},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Learn more how scented candles release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit — and can harm your health.","Are scented candles bad for you?Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.Paraffin waxAre paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like: alkenes acetone benzene toluene These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).Is burning candles bad for you?In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including: allergies asthma COPD (5) respiratory tract infections heart attacks strokes cancer So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).Chemical fragrancesAnother problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7): formaldehyde petroleum distillates limonene alcohol esters These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as: headaches dizziness allergy symptoms asthma attacks respiratory tract infections cancer Cored wicksMany candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).Safer alternativesTo limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air: Use essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma. Simmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove. Create potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home. The takeawayLighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.","

Are scented candles bad for you?

Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.

Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.

Paraffin wax

Are paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?

According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).

Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like:

alkenes
acetone
benzene
toluene

These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.

A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).

Is burning candles bad for you?

In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).

A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).

Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including:

allergies
asthma
COPD (5)
respiratory tract infections
heart attacks
strokes
cancer

So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).

Chemical fragrances

Another problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7):

formaldehyde
petroleum distillates
limonene
alcohol
esters

These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as:

headaches
dizziness
allergy symptoms
asthma attacks
respiratory tract infections
cancer
\n\n\t

Cored wicks

Many candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.

Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.

All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.

However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).

Safer alternatives

To limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).

If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air:

\nUse essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma.
\nSimmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove.
\nCreate potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home.

The takeaway

Lighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.

","hidden-dangers-scented-candles","gid://shopify/Article/564925464654","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/hidden-dangers-scented-candles","2016-12-04T22:35:53Z",[670,1469],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_10":1520,"_1130":1521,"_597":1522,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269279461454","Two lit candles","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/49_scented_desktop_RE_8f4a0295-45a8-421d-870a-900787fa96cc.jpg?v=1749633122","successStories",[1525,1542,1559,1576],{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1526,"_1094":1527,"_1110":1528,"_1111":1529,"_1112":1530,"_1114":1531,"_962":1532,"_10":1533,"_1118":1534,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1535,"_594":1536,"_558":1537,"_1127":1538},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.","

Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.

","“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.” In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data. Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning. \"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.” “It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.” Local expertise, global resources drive innovation Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight. The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity. The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life. These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa. By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa. The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people. While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives. Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said. Cultivating environmental consciousness Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.” “Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.” Conclusion From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.","

“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.”

In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data.

Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air

In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning.

\"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.”

“It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.”

Local expertise, global resources drive innovation

Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight.

The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity.

The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life.

These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa.

By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa.

The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa

The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report , there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people.

While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.

Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives.

Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow

Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.

The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said.

Cultivating environmental consciousness

Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"

Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.”

“Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.”

Conclusion

From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.

Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.

Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.

","revealing-the-invisible-kenya","gid://shopify/Article/634090586190","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-kenya","2025-12-01T13:00:00Z",[665,851],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_10":1539,"_1130":1540,"_597":1541,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/271197536334","Nairobi-city-smog","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Revamp_Kenya_Clean_Air_Desktop_17bb0503-bb60-4348-89cf-60970c96defc.jpg?v=1767630564",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1543,"_1094":1544,"_1110":1545,"_1111":1546,"_1112":1547,"_1114":1548,"_962":1549,"_10":1550,"_1118":1551,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1552,"_594":1553,"_558":1554,"_1127":1555},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.","

WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.

","In Pakistan, where vast horizons stretch beneath seemingly clear skies, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of data and awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen. Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed 15 stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat. \"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan. As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.” Pakistan's Air Quality Challenge Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data. \"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions, and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained. WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan. “Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data. With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country. Rolling Out Pakistan’s Air Quality Network WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing a total of air quality sensors in 15 key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. All 15 stations are currently up and running. Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change. Air Quality Data in Action With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan. \"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.” Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives. Vision For the Future WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data. \"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution. The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\" “Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.” Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 70 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2024 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony. Conclusion WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters. “This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”","

In Pakistan, where vast horizons stretch beneath seemingly clear skies, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of data and awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen.

Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed 15 stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat.

\"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan.

As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.”

Pakistan's Air Quality Challenge

Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data.

\"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions, and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained.

WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan.

“Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data.

With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country.

Rolling Out Pakistan’s Air Quality Network

WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing a total of air quality sensors in 15 key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. All 15 stations are currently up and running.

Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change.

Air Quality Data in Action

With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan.

\"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.”

Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives.

Vision For the Future

WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data.

\"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution.

The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\"

“Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.”

Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 70 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2024 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony.

Conclusion

WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters.

“This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”

","revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","gid://shopify/Article/634659078222","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","2025-11-12T17:43:22Z",[660,665,851],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_10":1556,"_1130":1557,"_597":1558,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/270766047310","WWF Team standing Next to Solar Panel","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_PakistanContributor_Desk_A_1ed3d785-94f0-4a6f-af87-5d895532bd30.jpg?v=1762969405",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1560,"_1094":1561,"_1110":1562,"_1111":1563,"_1112":1564,"_1114":1565,"_962":1566,"_10":1567,"_1118":1568,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1569,"_594":1570,"_558":1571,"_1127":1572},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Learn about Permian Health's innovative approach to improving air quality in Gambia, using cutting-edge technology to reveal invisible pollutants and safeguard public health.","

Learn about Permian Health's innovative approach to improving air quality in Gambia, using cutting-edge technology to reveal invisible pollutants and safeguard public health.

","In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors. A vision born from necessity Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted. Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air. “There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health The journey of Permian Health Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside. \"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\" Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions. Dr Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.” “The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.” Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March. Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data. Pioneering work on the ground To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\" This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said. However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues. ‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained. Uniting minds and garnering accolades To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project. A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data. \"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray. This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country. Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors. With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors. Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award highlights the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further. Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment. Hopes for the Future Thanks to their recent Air Quality Award, Permian Health acquired an 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia. Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed. Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia. “We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.” \"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\" A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan. According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\" \"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network. The takeaway Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders. Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond monitoring; it's about transforming the fabric of public health through the lens of air quality.","

In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors.

A vision born from necessity

Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted.

Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.

“There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”

–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health

The journey of Permian Health

Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside.

\"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\"

\nHighlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality\n

Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions.

$\"\"$

Dr Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.”

“The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.”

Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March.

Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data.

Pioneering work on the ground

To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia.

\"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\"

This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said.

However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues.

‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained.

Uniting minds and garnering accolades

To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project.

A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data.

\"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray.

This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country.

Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors.

With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors.

Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award highlights the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further.

Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment.

Hopes for the Future

Thanks to their recent Air Quality Award, Permian Health acquired an 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia.

$\"\"$

Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed.

Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia.

“We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.”

\"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\"

A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan.

According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\"

\"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network.

The takeaway

Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders.

Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond monitoring; it's about transforming the fabric of public health through the lens of air quality.

","permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","gid://shopify/Article/634018988110","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","2025-03-24T17:00:00Z",[660,665,851],"Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s Air Quality Crusade in Gambia",{"_10":1573,"_1130":1574,"_597":1575,"_1133":1152,"_490":1153},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269813416014","Man working on pole","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/PermianHealth_Desk_A_e25c0fb4-f682-4892-bbc6-5c8e0d753ac9.jpg?v=1754481444",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1577,"_1094":1578,"_1110":1579,"_1111":1580,"_1112":1581,"_1114":1582,"_962":1583,"_10":1584,"_1118":1585,"_1120":-5,"_1121":1586,"_594":1587,"_558":1589,"_1127":1590},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.","

A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.

","Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region. Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them. Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively. Mission built on compassion Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017. “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.” But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality. Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem. “The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.” There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.” This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes. Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions. Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs. Life changing air cleaning solution Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively. Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’” That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable. The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges. “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared. The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat. Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.” “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.” When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night. Looking ahead For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes. The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens. Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.” Conclusion Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal. For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.","

Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region.

Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them.

Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively.

Mission built on compassion

Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017.

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.”

But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality.

Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue.

Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues

Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem.

“The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.”

There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.”

This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes.

Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions.

Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs.

Life changing air cleaning solution

Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively.

Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’”

That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable.

The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges.

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared.

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The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat.

Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.”

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.”

When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night.

Looking ahead

For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes.

The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens.

Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.”

Conclusion

Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal.

For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.

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