Volcanic eruption - recommendations for health effects

What is volcanic smog?

Volcanic smog is an air pollution that forms when sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and other gases and particles react with oxygen and moisture in the atmosphere with the help of sunlight. This process converts sulfur dioxide gas (SO₂) to sulfate particles (SO₄) and changes the pollution from gas to solid particles. Pollution due to volcanic smog is therefore not detectable on normal SO₂ gas detectors.

How is volcanic smog detected in the atmosphere?

The presence of volcanic smog is best assessed by monitoring fine particulate matter (PM1). In addition, measurements of PM2,5 can also give some information about the presence of volcanic smog. The Environmental Agency´s website (loftgaedi.is) provides real-time measurements of air quality and pollution caused by particulate matter, simplifying results with color-coded indicators.

What are the health effects of volcanic smog?

Volcanic smog is generally more irritating than particulate matter due to car traffic. Exposure to volcanic smog can result in drowsiness, headaches, eye and throat irritation as well as respiratory symptoms. Fine particulates (PM1 and PM2,5) pose significant health risks as they can easily reach deep into the lungs and therefore into the body. All individuals can feel some effects from volcanic smog but children and adult individuals with underlying heart- and lung diseases should avoid staying outdoors for longer periods as well as strenuous activity in polluted areas.

How to react when experiencing symptoms due to volcanic smog exposure

Those experiencing symptoms due to exposure to volcanic smog should stay indoors, close windows and rest. If the symptoms persist or are not relieved, seek assistance at your local health clinic or call 1700 for advice.

Those individuals who use inhaled medications for asthma- or lung diseases should ensure that they have them available and use them as prescribed. It is possible that those individuals may need to adjust their dosage during high levels of volcanic air pollution or if the symptoms persist. Adjustment of dosages should always be done in cooperation with health care professionals.