The Health Effects of Breathing Wildfire Smoke Over Time

During wildfires, indoor air quality can significantly worsen due to smoke infiltration. Wildfire smoke has emerged as a significant health hazard, particularly in regions experiencing prolonged fire seasons.

The smoke contains a complex mixture of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, and various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). All of these pose serious risks to human health.

Short-term exposure can lead to immediate discomfort such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. People with conditions like asthma or COPD may see their symptoms get worse. This can lead to more medication use and, in serious cases, hospitalization.

The long-term effects of wildfire smoke are equally concerning. Repeated exposure to the fine particles and toxins within the smoke has been linked to chronic respiratory diseases and an elevated risk of cardiovascular issues.

Recent studies suggest a potential connection between prolonged exposure and cognitive decline, including memory loss.

Additionally, wildfire smoke compromises the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections such as pneumonia. These risks underscore the importance of mitigating exposure, especially as wildfires become more frequent and intense due to climate change.

Compounding the issue is the widespread reach of wildfire smoke. Even communities hundreds of miles from an active wildfire can experience degraded air quality as smoke travels long distances.

Extended wildfire smoke exposure can increase health risks for large groups of people. Vulnerable individuals—like children, older adults, and those with existing health issues—are especially at risk.

The importance of maintaining indoor air quality cannot be overstated, as people spend significant time indoors, especially during wildfire events when outdoor air quality is hazardous. Read our article "How Wildfire Smoke Compromises Indoor Air Quality and Your Health."

As California grapples with a catastrophic and intense wildfire, the health and well-being of residents in impacted areas, including the Los Angeles region, are of great concern. The pervasive smoke from these fires has led to severe air quality warnings, putting millions at risk of both short- and long-term health issues.

In these challenging times, solutions that improve indoor air quality are critical to safeguarding public health.

WellAir’s FDA Cleared Novaerus Defend range of air disinfection devices offers an effective solution for improving indoor air quality during wildfire events. The Defend devices use patented NanoStrike™ technology combined with a triple-stage medical grade filtration system (Pre, HEPA13 and Carbon).

These devices inactivate airborne pathogens and remove harmful particulates, including those found in toxic wildfire smoke. By reducing indoor pollutant levels, Novaerus Defend products help protect individuals from the adverse health effects associated with prolonged exposure to smoke.

WellAir's Plasma Air HVAC air purifcation solutions provide another powerful approach to improving indoor air quality during wildfire events. Designed for integration into HVAC systems, the bipolar ionization solutions can treat the whole building, and safely works by emitting ions that neutralize airborne pollutants.

The ionization reduces harmful particulate matter and toxins, including those prevalent during wildfires. All Plasma Air solutions are UL 2998 validated for zero ozone emissions.

Whether used in homes, schools, businesses, or healthcare facilities, WellAir’s air cleaning solutions provide a vital line of defense, ensuring cleaner and safer indoor environments.

Our thoughts remain with those affected by the recent wildfires, and we are committed to providing effective tools to help mitigate the health impacts of wildfire smoke. WellAir is here to help.

 Our Defend line of air disinfection solutions can be deployed for immediate remediation.

Contact us to find a Plasma Air distributor near you.