Regional fires have filled the skies with smoke and particulates. Throughout the Willamette Valley and in spots along the central coast, air quality can range from unhealthy to hazardous.
Lane County Public Health recommends staying indoors with windows closed and refraining from strenuous activity when outside.
Spokesperson Jason Davis warned poor air quality can cause symptoms that mimic those of COVID-19.
“Most commonly it’s the watery eyes, potentially difficulty breathing, an irritated throat and irritated nasal passageways,” he said. “So those are all things that can happen due to smoke in the air and this poor air quality. Because you are experiencing those symptoms doesn’t mean that you are necessarily coming down with COVID.”
Davis said air quality is expected to remain poor for the rest of the week so don’t be surprised if symptoms persist. He added, if anyone feels they have been infected with the virus, testing is always available.