Resumen
Millones de personas están expuestas a las expulsiones peligrosas de gases, vapores y otras partículas inorgánicas durante y después de las erupciones volcánicas. Estos gases tienen potenciales efectos sobre la salud humana en el sistema respiratorio, oftalmológico, mental y en la piel, entre otros, tanto a corto como a largo plazo. También se ha descrito que las erupciones volcánicas pueden incrementar el riesgo de mortalidad. En 2023, el volcán Popocatépetl ha presentado una actividad aumentada en la que se ha elevado la alerta a fase 3 (actividad a una escala de intermedia a alta). El entendimiento del fenómeno volcánico en la región es esencial para asistir al personal de salud y proveer cuidados de salud informados a tiempo. Es claro que se requiere de la existencia de sistemas de vigilancia de la salud para monitorizar y ayudar a controlar los posibles efectos adversos en la salud de las erupciones volcánicas. En esta revisión, se resume la evidencia más relevante que evalúa los efectos sobre la salud humana de las emisiones generadas tras las erupciones volcánicas y las opciones para su control.
Abstract
Millions of people are exposed to harmful emissions of gases, vapors, and other inorganic particles during and after volcanic eruptions. These gases have potential short- and long-term effects on human health, particularly on respiratory, ophtalmic, mental systems, as well as on the skin, among others. It has also been described that volcanic eruptions can increase the mortality risk. In 2023, the Popocatepetl volcano has registered recent intense activity, putting the area on high alert. Understanding local volcanic phenomena is essential to assist health personnel in providing informed and timely care. It is clear that health surveillance systems are required to monitor and help control the possible adverse health effects of volcanic eruptions. This review summarizes the most relevant evidence assessing the human health effects of emissions generated after volcanic eruptions and options for their control.
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