Part of: GS Prelims and GS -II – Health and GS III – Pollution
In news
For the first time, a pan-India study has found a direct correlation between air pollution and Covid-19.
The study titled ‘Establishing a link between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) zones and Covid-19 over India based on anthropogenic emission sources and air quality data’ dealt with how people living in highly polluted areas are more vulnerable to coronavirus infections.
The study found that areas with poor air quality and higher emissions of particulate matter (PM) 2.5 are more likely to have Covid-19 infections and related deaths.
The study was conducted by scientists from various universities such as Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, National Institute of Technology Rourkela; IIT, Bhubaneswar.
It was partially funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the Government of India.
The study involves three kinds of data sets
National Emission Inventory (NEI) of PM2.5 for 2019, developed by the scientists;
Number of Covid-19 positive cases and corresponding death as of 5th November, 2020.
Air quality index data (in-situ observations).
Important Observations
The regions using huge amounts of fossil fuels such as petrol, diesel and coal by combustion in transport and industrial activities also experience a far higher number of Covid-19 cases.
The novel coronavirus sticks to fine particles like PM2.5 allowing them to move from one part to another by making the airborne transmission of Covid-19 more effective.
About Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5
It is an atmospheric particulate matter of diameter of fewer than 2.5 micrometres, which is around 3% the diameter of a human hair.
It is very small and can only be detected with the help of an electron microscope.
It causes respiratory problems and also reduces visibility.
It is an endocrine disruptor that can affect insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, thus contributing to diabetes.
These particles are formed as a result of burning fuel and chemical reactions that take place in the atmosphere.
Natural processes such as forest fires also contribute to PM2.5 in the air.
These particles are also the primary reason for the occurrence of smog.
