DAMMAM: A number of private and public Eastern Province health facilities reported a rise in respiratory ailments after a heavy sandstorm hit the region Friday. The region was enveloped in a haze of dust from around 10 P.M. causing traffic disruptions and reducing visibility to about 10 meters. Many accidents were reported in Jubail, Qafji and Al-Ahsa region. People were seen wearing face masks and goggles as a precaution. Dr. Kumar, a general practitioner at a private clinic in Dammam, said: “We have received many cases since Friday night, mostly asthmatic patients who developed respiratory problems after inhaling dust particles. We are expecting an increase in such cases in the coming few days since dust particles are still in the atmosphere.” He advised people with allergy problems to avoid exposure to dust and stay indoors, to drink water and wash the eyes, nose and face frequently with cold water. Another doctor from Dammam Medical Complex reported the same problems. Respiratory problems were reportedly on the rise in Dammam among laborers. There are an estimated 44,000 asthma patients in the Eastern Province, according to the health ministry. Doctors advised people to clean their homes and work places to avoid respiratory problems. Traffic department authorities advised motorists to be extremely cautious while driving because the fine dust particles on the road increase the chances of skidding.
