New Delhi, India

Air pollution impacts our health in ways we can't even imagine. It deteriorates the respiratory system and also affects other organs, especially in susceptible groups including the elderly, small children and individuals with pre-existing respiratory diseases. 

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The pollutants present in the air are linked to an increased risk of influenza infection, which poses a serious threat to human health because of high contagiousness and incidence. Several pandemics of Influenza have caused significant mortality and morbidity. 

WION got in touch with experts for an in-depth analysis. While speaking about air pollution and Influenza, Dr (Col) SP Rai Consultant Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai told WION, "Influenza is a severe respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza virus, which causes substantial mortality and morbidity. Influenza can cause mild to severe disease. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body ache." 

Some can suffer from severe breathlessness and decreased SpO2. It spreads by tiny droplets formed when people with flu cough, sneeze, talk to nearby people. The period of infectiousness usually lasts for five days. It can cause exacerbation of pre-existing lung diseases, Dr Rai added. 

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Alarming rise in air pollution 

Air pollution is a mixture of tiny particles and substances emitted from vehicular fumes, burning coal/ wood/ stubble burning and natural sources. Soot, dust, smoke, ground-level ozone and carbon monoxide are just a few examples of common pollutants that can contaminate the air we breathe. Particulate matter (PM), especially PM 2.5 is of more concern. 

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We all know that breathing in clean, fresh air is important for good health and well-being. However, it's not possible because of an alarming rise in air pollution worldwide. 

Dr Jejoe Karankumar, Medical Affairs Director, Abbott India commented, "Helping people stay healthy at every stage of life is important. Air pollution and respiratory problems, like flu, can come in the way of this. It's important to raise awareness about the steps people can take to protect themselves against infections like flu, especially at a time when its cases are rising. Preventive care is important, and it's vital for more people, especially those at risk, to get their yearly flu vaccination for greater protection." 

Also read: Rising cases of silent heart attacks linked to long Covid? WION decodes 

Air pollution in India 

India's capital New Delhi every year ahead of the winter season faces high pollution levels caused by a combination of factors, including stubble burning, atmospheric changes, and more. 

Indian cities occupied six of the top 10 spots for the most polluted cities worldwide in 2022. A report by the Air Quality Life Index also found that high levels of pollution can reduce an average person's life span in India by 5.3 years, compared to what they could have had if the air quality met the World Health Organization's guidelines. 

Air pollution isn't just about the outdoor world—the air inside your home or building can be polluted too. Major sources of indoor air pollution include: tobacco smoke and second-hand smoke, Radon from the ground, indoor burning of coal or wood, fumes from paint or cleaning products and spores from mould. 

Dr Vivek Nangia, Principal Director & Head, Institute of Respiratory, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Max Hospital, Saket, Delhi, said, "I have seen an approximate 25-30% rise in patients, affected by smog and air pollution in Delhi. Many people are experiencing symptoms like breathlessness and cough – and there's been a roughly 30% increase in reported cases of influenza-like illnesses over the last 2-3 weeks." 

"Polluted air can also make someone feel worse when they have the flu. It's important for people to protect themselves," Dr Nangia added. 

Also read: Research outlines significant changes that happen to body during pregnancy 

Who is more susceptible to air pollution-related diseases? 

Poor air quality affects everyone, to some, the effects are far more adverse than others such as children under five years of age, pregnant women, older adults (65 years of age and older), and people with underlying health conditions. 

Children are more sensitive to adverse effects of pollutants and viral infections than adults, and studies have shown links between air pollution and a greater risk of upper and lower respiratory infections, particularly flu. 

Pregnant women may also become vulnerable to infections like the flu because of air pollution. This affects them disproportionately. Reducing the pregnant mother's exposure to air pollution can lower her risk of being affected by an infection and also help safeguard her child's health better. 

Dr Jayalakshmi TK - Senior Consultant Pulmonology, Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai told WION: "During flu season, the risk of transmission is heightened, especially in crowded places where people interact closely. Influenza can cause severe complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Studies have also found a link between two pollutants (PM2.5 and ozone) and influenza." 

"Prolonged exposure to polluted air increases the risk of developing respiratory illnesses, including asthma, bronchitis, respiratory infections, COPD and even lung cancer," Dr Jayalakshmi added. 

Also read: Rare Disease Day: Challenges in protecting newborns from rare growth-affecting conditions 

What are the preventive measures? 

While speaking on the preventive measures, Dr Jayalakshmi said that during the flu season, pollution and influenza together can be a double whammy impacting respiratory health and hence several proactive measures must be taken. 

1. Limit Exposure to Air Pollution: Stay informed about air quality levels in your area and avoid outdoor activities during times of high pollution. Use air purifiers indoors to minimize exposure to indoor pollutants. 

2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially during flu season, to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading influenza. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets. 

3. Maintain Respiratory Health: Adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration and avoid Smoking. These habits strengthen the immune system and improve respiratory function, reducing susceptibility to respiratory infections. 

4. Get Vaccinated: Receive annual flu vaccinations to protect against seasonal influenza strains. Vaccination not only reduces the likelihood of contracting the flu but also mitigates its severity if infection occurs. 

5. Avoid Crowded Places: In the flu season try to minimize going to crowded places and gatherings, and wear masks when going out, which helps to reduce the inhalation of particulate matter, and also reduces the spread of influenza. 

6. Seek Medical Attention Promptly: If experiencing respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or fever, seek medical advice promptly. Early intervention can prevent complications and promote faster recovery.