KUWAIT CITY, Dec 15: The Ministry of Health has called on the public to adhere to health guidelines to avoid complications from dust exposure, particularly for those most at risk, including asthma patients, individuals with chronic respiratory diseases, the elderly, and children. The ministry emphasized the importance of taking precautions to ensure safety and well-being.

In a press statement on Sunday, Dr. Abdullah Al-Misnad, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, stressed the need to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid going outside unless necessary, especially during peak dust density. He also advised tightly closing windows and doors to prevent dust from entering homes.

Dr. Al-Misnad recommended avoiding outdoor sports and staying hydrated to minimize the effects of dehydration caused by the dusty weather. He also urged asthma and respiratory disease patients to continue their prescribed medications and carry asthma inhalers or any other medications recommended by their doctors.

Additionally, Dr. Al-Misnad advised people to wash their face and eyes with water upon returning indoors to remove any lingering dust. If respiratory symptoms worsen or if there is difficulty breathing, individuals should visit the nearest health center or hospital for necessary care.

The Meteorology Department reported that the country has been affected since Saturday evening by an extension of a high-pressure system, accompanied by a cold air mass. This has led to strong northwesterly winds, reaching speeds of over 60 kilometers per hour, causing horizontal visibility to drop to less than 1,000 meters due to the dust carried by the winds.