Etna's Ash Cloud Brings 'Nightmare' Health Risks

Mount Etna's volcanic ash is affecting the health and daily lives of locals living in its shadow, with residents experiencing respiratory issues and other health problems due to the ash particles in the air. The ashfall can reach thousands of tonnes a day, blanketing towns across the region and posing a hidden health risk, particularly when inhaled.

Emilia Privitera, a resident of Nicolosi, a town perched on the slopes of Mount Etna, started coughing relentlessly in March 2021 and was found to have ash particles stuck in her lungs. Her symptoms return with every eruption, and she is not alone - hundreds of other residents in the area experience similar health issues.

A series of eruptions has brought Mount Etna back to international headlines, grounding hundreds of flights for a week. However, the health impacts of the volcanic ash are a more pressing concern for locals. The fine fraction of volcanic ash can penetrate deep into the lungs, triggering inflammation, oxidative stress, and respiratory irritation.

A 2013 paper found a significant increase in emergency department visits for acute respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular conditions, and eye irritation during Etna's 2002 eruptions. Daniele Lombardo, a co-author of a study on the health impacts of Etna's eruptions, highlights the need for awareness about the hidden health risks posed by volcanic ash.

## Why it matters The health risks associated with Mount Etna's volcanic ash are a significant concern for locals and authorities. The town of Nicolosi, located near Sicily's second largest city, Catania, is particularly affected due to its proximity to the volcano. As the most active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna's eruptions can have a substantial impact on the daily lives and health of those living in its shadow. With ashfall reaching thousands of tonnes a day, it is essential to address the hidden health risks and find solutions to mitigate the effects of the volcanic ash.