HPA: Volcanic ash should not cause health concerns

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has told the public not to worry about any potential health concerns arsing from the volcanic ash currently spreading across northern Europe.

According to a statement from the HPA in Scotland, the plume of volcanic ash currently trapped in the atmosphere above the UK is not a significant risk to public health because it is at high altitude.

It added: “It is important to stress that the concentration of particles which does reach ground level is likely to be low and should not cause serious harm.”

However, the organisation also said that those who do experience irritation because of the particles should limit the time they spend outside, while those with existing lung conditions should keep inhalers and medication with them.

This advice has been echoed by the British Lung Foundation, which said that while the ash does not pose a significant health risk to the public, lung problem sufferers should be extra vigilant.