Upper respiratory symptoms, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, nausea. Physicians have seen increases in ear infections and bacterial pneumonia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some immediate health strategies you can use:
- Maintain a clean home environment by regularly cleaning and reducing dust.
- Remove shoes before entering your home to minimize contaminants.
- Use air purifiers, especially overnight and in bedrooms, to improve air quality.
- Wash hands frequently, especially before eating, to prevent germ spread.
- Monitor your health for symptoms and contact your healthcare provider if any arise.
Practice proper hygiene and keep pediatricians informed if any asthma symptoms develop such as coughing or wheezing. If you or your children are experiencing health symptoms, inform the physician and let them know where in the South Bay you live or work so you can develop a health plan together. Do not hesitate to keep children inside if the air quality levels are poor.
Children, older adults (65+), pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses are the most susceptible to negative health effects. Be sure to discuss any symptoms or concerns with your healthcare provider and decrease outdoor activities if any arise.
We are unsure. The Healthy Water, Healthy Air Survey offers the option to complete monthly follow-up surveys which will help gain a better understanding of long-term symptoms people working or living in the South Bay areas may be experiencing. We highly encourage you to participate in the survey.
Diarrhea has been present with dogs. They can get sick and spread disease within homes and get your family ill. Wiping down paws before entering the house will help decrease the spread of germs from your pet.
Yes. Livestock exposed to polluted air or water may develop respiratory or gastrointestinal issues. Farmers and caretakers should report unusual illnesses and minimize exposure by sheltering animals during peak pollution times. SDSU is collecting information on pet and livestock health in the Healthy Water, Healthy Air Survey that people who work or live in the South Bay communities can complete monthly.
In addition to air purifiers:
- Vacuum regularly with a HEPA-filtered vacuum. This effectively removes dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles. Remember to check and replace or clean the HEPA filter often.
- Keep windows closed, especially on high odor days. This prevents outdoor contaminants from entering your home and helps maintain better indoor air quality.
- Use doormats and washable rugs. Place them at all entrances to help remove contaminants from footwear before they’re tracked into your home.
- Regularly change HVAC filters. Replace the filters in your heating and air conditioning units according to manufacturer recommendations.
- Use non-toxic cleaning products. This improves indoor air quality and minimizes your exposure to harmful chemicals.
There’s limited data on which air purifiers are most effective. Using air purifiers, especially overnight and in sleeping areas, can help reduce exposure to air contaminants and decrease odors. For more information about air purifiers visit: The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District Air Improvement Relief Effort Program.
You can get more information, review the eligibility criteria, and apply at: The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District Air Improvement Relief Effort Program.
The persistence of odors at night can be attributed to a few environmental factors. As evening falls, atmospheric pressure can create a “lid” that traps gases near the surface. At the same time, river flows often increase during these hours, leading to a greater release of hydrogen sulfide. This, combined with reduced wind speeds, allows the odors to accumulate and linger in the air.
Mainly hydrogen sulfide. Traces of pesticide pollution, industrial waste, heavy metals, and pharmaceuticals have also been detected.
A colorless, flammable, and toxic gas that produces a rotten egg smell. It occurs naturally in the environment, but is exacerbated by human activities such as industrial and sewage waste. Exposure may not cause disease but can lead to short-term health symptoms such as irritation to the eyes, nose, or throat, headaches, poor memory, and tiredness. Learn more at: The San Diego County about Environmental Odors Page
To monitor local pollution levels and determine if you should adjust outdoor activities, visit the San Diego Air Pollution Control District. You can also sign up to receive odor advisories and updates by email at: San Diego County Air Pollution Control District.
Report odors immediately to The San Diego Air Pollution Control District’s complaint line. Logging these complaints helps build a case for stronger enforcement and resource allocation. Include the time, date, location, and a description of the smell.
Tap water is generally safe as it is regulated and treated by your local utility to meet strict state and federal quality standards. If you rely on a private well, consider periodic water testing.
Community action is powerful. A recent $600 million investment in a new wastewater treatment plant was made possible because residents spoke up and demanded change. You can make a difference by:
- Attending community meetings and events to stay informed and involved.
- Contact your local, state, and federal representatives to voice your concerns.
- Tracking pollution data through EPA and local environmental reports.
Take the Survey Here. When you complete the survey, you will have the option to select if you want to complete monthly follow-up surveys. You will then receive links to the survey via text or email each month.
Fill out the form below if you would like a yard sign, flyers, or door hangers delivered to your home or business. The more people that take the survey, the more we can spread awareness and promote change towards healthier South Bay communities.