Smoky skies lead to 25% jump in dispensed inhalers in B.C.

BRITISH COLUMBIA (NEWS 1130) – There’s been a big jump in dispensed inhalers around the province as people deal with the effects of wildfire smoke.

According to the Ministry of Health, this wildfire season led to a 25 per cent increase during the week of Aug. 13-19 compared to previous averages.

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The ministry says the increase was even higher in the Interior and the Northern region, at 37 and 42 per cent respectively.

“Wildfire smoke can have a negative impact on people who have asthma and other respiratory illnesses, children, pregnant women and the elderly,” read a statement from the ministry.

But a health scientist with the BC Centre for Disease Control says the jump in inhalers may be the new norm for the province.

“We may have even seen a stronger response. I think people in B.C. are getting a little bit more adept and aware of wildfire smoke so they’re learning to manage their conditions a little bit better,” says Sarah Henderson.

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As we experience longer wildfire seasons, those with underlying health concerns need to be prepared to deal with air quality advisories, Henderson adds.

“We’ve had two very bad seasons in a row now,” she says. “I would love to see everybody who has a respiratory condition go into the wildfire season with their asthma plan worked out with their physician.”

She says the smoke has affected a number of groups, including seniors, pregnant women and those with underlying medical conditions.