The Ministry of Health has warned residents, especially those with asthma or chest diseases, to not go outdoors in the current dust storm hitting the Kingdom. It is advising people to wear medical face masks if they must go out. Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeah, Minister of Health, has also ordered directors of health affairs in regions affected to take all necessary procedures to keep people safe. The ministry's statement said: “The general public should not leave their houses unless there is something important and they should follow the news on TV, radio and the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment's website.” All doors and windows should be secured well to prevent dust from entering houses, so they remain clean, the statement said. Bedrooms and bed sheets in particular must be given extra care. The statement also said that face masks should be worn all the time. People who have recently undergone eye or nose surgeries should not go out. The ministry also reiterated that all hospitals and emergency units are ready to deal with and respond to cases caused by the dust wave.
