Following the peak of Canadian wildfire smoke air pollution in New York this Wednesday, hospitals across the state reported an alarming 84% rise in asthma-related emergency room visits, as per recent state data.
This excludes New York City and indicates a jump to 147 visits on Wednesday from a daily average of 80 over the prior five days. This escalation coincides with air quality in New York reaching historically poor levels.
Simultaneously, statewide emergency medical service responses for respiratory symptoms witnessed a significant 18% leap in rates per 100,000 population, including a 28% surge in the New York City metropolitan area.
Highlighting the intricate health risks from the pervasive smog over New York this week, officials expect to continue observing potential increases in heart attacks, strokes, and other serious cardiovascular conditions linked to the pollution.
It’s noted that health risks from wildfire pollution are particularly severe for children under 18, individuals over 65, and those with heart conditions or lung disorders including asthma.
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