Health damages resulting from long-term exposure to air pollution can diminish the body’s ability to fend off respiratory infections. People suffering from preconditions linked to air pollution are more vulnerable to the effects of the SARS-CoV-2 1.
Such an understanding will also generate significant co-benefits in terms of improving the overall health of communities and increasing the resilience of societies.Īir pollution can increase susceptibility to acute respiratory illnessesĥ. However, a better understanding of the role of environmental health as a crucial component of overall health priorities will help to inform policy responses in the recovery from the current pandemic and preparedness for future such shocks. While the crisis is still unfolding around the world, and will continue to evolve for some time, empirical evidence on the links between environmental challenges and COVID-19 is still emerging. Halting and reversing biodiversity loss protects people from the transmission of pathogens.ģ. Effectively addressing waste generation, management and recycling minimises health and environmental risks from poor handling of contaminated waste. Better access to clean water and sanitation can lower transmission of infectious diseases.
Improving air quality reduces the incidence of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases that increase the vulnerability of individuals and communities to pandemics similar to COVID-19, and generates wider benefits for public health, well-being and resilience. Many of today’s environmental challenges are responsible for adversely affecting the health and livelihoods of individuals and communities in both OECD and non-OECD countries, with vulnerable groups such as the elderly and less well-off segments of society being more impacted.