When the cold winter passes and spring comes with many things which start anew, there is an uninvited guest: the yellow dust. Yellow dust is a nature phenomenon where small particles of sand from the desert or yellow soil zone in China float in the wind and slowly fall down to the ground. It occurs usually in March to May and according to the National Weather Service, its frequency of occurrence has steadily increased since 1960. The sand can also include elements of heavy metal, harmful to our body. The most common diseases as a result of yellow dust are bronchitis, conjunctivitis, and dermatitis.

 Fine dust from yellow dust and dry air commonly triggers bronchitis. Bronchitis is an illness that is caused by parched, bad quality air. It makes mucus membranes in the nose and lungs dry, so fine dusts permeates and causes inflammation. The symptoms of bronchitis are difficulty with breathing, a dry hacking cough, and rough breathing. Yellow dust can cause this sickness to develop into asthma and acute pneumonia, so we have to be careful.

 Conjunctivitis is also one of the diseases that is caused by yellow dust. Eyeballs are sensitive parts of the body that come in contact with dust directly but we can't wash them easily. Foreign substance cause inflammation, and typical signs of conjunctivitis are feeling of irritation in the eye, itchiness, and congestion. As the density of yellow dust gets thicker, the possibility of conjunctivitis gets higher.

 Lastly, dermatitis is a problem that is attributed to immediate damage from acidity and heavy metal components on skin. Especially dioxin in yellow dust can harm skin. Lots of skin problems may appear such as allergies and rashes, and it is especially dangerous to those with atopic dermatitis because fine particulate matter can make it worse. Additionally, fine dust in pores inhibits the ability of skin to release natural oils. Dry winds from yellow dust can also worsen xeroderma.

 ❝Therefore what personal efforts can be made to prevent many diseases caused by yellow dust? First, observe the weather forecast closely and when yellow dust is serious, you have to abstain from going out. The less exposure is the best, so we must stay indoors unless it is necessary to be outside. Second, if you have to go out, take a yellow dust prevention mask and protection glasses. Also washing hands is important. Third, drink water frequently and eat immune-enhancing foods. Let's all take care of our health by thorough individual hygiene and good personal lifestyles.❞

77th  Cub Reporter • JO YEON WOO • amyjoe0213@naver.com