Mumbai’s air quality has deteriorated significantly, with rising cases of respiratory illnesses being reported across the city. As temperatures dip, medical experts are observing a surge in respiratory infections, particularly recurring ones. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Mumbai’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 174 (moderate) as of 4 p.m. on Sunday, with data available from 25 out of 30 monitoring stations. By 6 p.m., 10 stations reported ‘poor’ air quality. These areas included Borivali East (231), Chembur (210), Ghatkopar (226), Kandivali East (213), Kherwadi Bandra East (217), Malad West (237), Mazgaon (219), Navy Nagar Colaba (229), Shivaji Nagar (237), and Siddharth Nagar Worli (210).
The AQI scale categorises air quality from 0 to 500: 0–100 is ‘good’, 100–200 is ‘moderate’, 200–300 is ‘poor’, 300–400 is ‘very poor’, and above 400 is ‘severe’.
Health impact of poor air quality
Doctors have attributed the worsening air quality to a notable spike in respiratory issues, especially among children and individuals with pre-existing conditions. Dr Indu Khosla, a paediatric pulmonologist from Andheri, reported an uptick in acute respiratory flare-ups. “Winter is already a season of increased respiratory infections, but air pollution exacerbates the situation. Pollutants remain trapped due to cooler temperatures, triggering asthma, colds, coughs, and allergies,” she explained.
Dr Khosla emphasised the importance of regular inhaler use for children with asthma. “Those who skip their inhaler doses are particularly prone to severe infections and relapses,” she added.
Dr Hemant Thacker, senior general physician, said, “Winter is still setting in but every third person you will find in the city with complaints of running nose, fever etc. The upper respiratory tract the infection problem in the city is mainly because of the construction works going on in the city, the dust and other pollution.”
Residents, too, are grappling with the effects of poor air quality. Sanskruti Shinde, a 54-year-old Wadala resident, had to be prescribed mild steroids after suffering from a persistent cough for over two weeks. “I tried home remedies and various treatments, but nothing worked. My doctor advised me to avoid outdoor activities and morning walks during poor air quality days,” she said.
Similarly, Swapnil Bharadwaj from Andheri-Marol shared that his entire family has been battling prolonged dry coughs. “If one member recovers, another falls ill. Our doctor has advised us to wear masks, especially in high-traffic areas,” he said.
The common symptoms represented by the most patients are dry cough, running nose, low grade fever and breathlessness and affecting people across the age group, says doctors.
Respiratory specialists have raised concerns about the rise in respiratory issues, even among healthy individuals. Dr. Rajesh Sharma, a respiratory medicine specialist in South Mumbai, said, “In my years of practice, I have never seen air quality as poor as it is now. Many patients continue to cough persistently despite treatment.” He added that 80% of his cases are linked to air pollution.
Dr Lancelot Pinto, a consultant pulmonologist at PD Hinduja Hospital, noted that even individuals without a history of respiratory problems are developing asthma-like symptoms. “This year, the air quality is exceptionally poor. Most prolonged coughs are not viral but are caused by allergies or irritants,” he said.
Doctors recommend preventive measures, including the use of high-quality masks and limiting outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality. Dr Sharma advised against outdoor exercise in the early mornings and suggested home remedies like steam inhalation to alleviate symptoms.
“We strongly urge people, especially those susceptible to air pollution-triggered illnesses, to avoid congested areas and stay indoors during peak pollution hours,” he said.
As Mumbai battles its declining air quality, health experts underscore the importance of vigilance, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Doctors recommend preventive measures, including the use of high-quality masks and limiting outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality. Dr Sharma advised against outdoor exercise in the early mornings and suggested home remedies like steam inhalation to alleviate symptoms.
“We strongly urge people, especially those susceptible to air pollution-triggered illnesses, to avoid congested areas and stay indoors during peak pollution hours,” he said.
As Mumbai battles its declining air quality, health experts underscore the importance of vigilance, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Tips to Prevent Upper Respiratory Infections This Winter
Get a Flu Shot: Annual flu vaccinations boost immunity against illnesses like asthma, colds, and respiratory infections.
Avoid Polluted Environments: Steer clear of polluted areas that can worsen respiratory conditions.
Practice Deep Breathing: Engage in simple yogic breathing exercises to strengthen your lungs.
Maintain Hygiene: Wash hands regularly and use a handkerchief or tissue while sneezing to prevent the spread of infections.
Use Masks in Crowds: Avoid crowded places or wear a mask. Always cover your mouth while sneezing.
Stay Warm: Dress in warm clothing and consume warm food and beverages.
Gargle with Warm Salt Water: Mix half a tablespoon of salt and a pinch of baking soda in warm water and gargle daily.
Limit Citrus Foods: Avoid citrus fruits if they trigger throat irritation or colds.
Try Steam Inhalation: Relieve nasal congestion with regular steam inhalation if you have a runny nose.
Avoid Cold Morning Walks: Refrain from exercising outdoors early in the morning during cold temperatures.
