Why Volcanic Ash Remains Dangerous Long After Eruptions
Volcanic Ash Can Remain a Health Threat After an Eruption Ends
Kabarsaji.com – The end of an eruption does not necessarily signal the end of its health dangers. Volcanic ash left on roofs, roads, open land, vehicles, and other surfaces can continue to affect communities for days or even weeks, particularly when wind, traffic, or cleanup work sends fine particles back into the air.
Dr. Sukamto Koesnoe, Deputy Chair I of the Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Internal Medicine Specialists Association (PAPDI), urged the public to remain cautious while ash remains present in the environment. Rain or complete removal of the deposits is needed before the risk substantially declines.
“So the risk persists for days to weeks until the ash is completely cleared or washed away by rain,” Sukamto said in Jakarta on Tuesday, September 8.
This lingering exposure matters because volcanic ash is very different from common household dust. It contains sharp, irregular silica particles, including PM10 and PM2.5 matter. The smallest particles can travel deep into the lungs, reaching the lower respiratory tract and the alveoli, where oxygen exchange takes place.
Respiratory Problems Are the Most Immediate Concern
For many people, the first signs of ash exposure involve the nose, throat, and lungs. Dryness, nasal discomfort, sore throat, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath may develop when ash becomes airborne. Even activities intended to restore daily life, such as sweeping driveways or clearing rooftops, can increase exposure if particles are disturbed without adequate protection.
“The most common respiratory tract disorders include nasal irritation, a dry and sore throat, a dry cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness,” Sukamto said.
People with existing respiratory conditions require particular attention. Ash can trigger sudden symptoms or worsening episodes among those living with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and allergic rhinitis. Irritation in the airway lining may also reduce its natural protective function, increasing susceptibility to acute respiratory infections.
Although silicosis is sometimes raised in discussions about volcanic ash, Sukamto emphasized that it is associated with repeated exposure over years. For residents dealing with a recent eruption, the more immediate issue is the acute irritation and worsening of existing disease caused by airborne ash.
Eyes, Skin, Food, and the Heart Can Also Be Affected
The health impact of ash is not limited to breathing. Its abrasive particles can irritate the eyes, causing redness, discomfort, conjunctivitis, or scratches to the cornea. Contact lens users are especially vulnerable because particles may become trapped against the surface of the eye. Temporarily using eyeglasses is the safer option while ash remains in the air.
“Contact lens wearers face the highest risk and should temporarily switch to eyeglasses,” he said.
Skin may also react after direct contact with ash. Itching, irritation, and dermatitis can occur, especially when ash has acidic properties or mixes with sweat. Washing exposed skin and avoiding unnecessary contact can help reduce discomfort.
Food and water deserve equal care. Ash settling on uncovered meals, drinking containers, or water supplies can create gastrointestinal problems if consumed. Keeping food covered, cleaning containers before use, and avoiding visibly contaminated items are practical steps during the cleanup period.
Fine PM2.5 particles may also place additional stress on the cardiovascular system. This is particularly important for people with pre-existing heart disease, whose condition can be aggravated by poor air quality and particulate exposure.
Practical Protection During the Cleanup Period
The safest approach is to reduce exposure before symptoms begin. People should limit time outdoors when ash is being lifted by wind or vehicles, keep doors and windows closed where possible, and take special care during cleanup. Ash can easily become airborne again when dry surfaces are swept or disturbed.
For trips outside or work that cannot be postponed, Sukamto recommended respirators rated N95, KN95, or FFP2. Their effectiveness depends not only on the filtering material but also on how closely the mask fits around the face. Gaps near the nose or cheeks allow contaminated air to bypass the filter.
Residents should remember that a loose respirator offers less protection than one that seals properly. Masks should fit snugly, and people should check that air is not escaping around the edges when breathing. Children, older adults, and people with chronic illnesses may need extra help ensuring protective equipment fits correctly.
Prepare Medicines and Vaccinations
Individuals with asthma or COPD should keep both daily controller medicines and quick-relief treatments available, particularly when traveling through ash-affected areas. Running out of medication during a flare-up can turn a manageable symptom into an urgent medical concern.
Sukamto also highlighted the role of routine immunization for people at higher risk of respiratory illness, including elderly adults and patients with chronic lung disease.
“For patients with chronic lung disease and the elderly, influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations should be updated. This is an often-forgotten part of the protection system,” said the lecturer from the Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia (FKUI).
When Medical Care Should Not Be Delayed
Most mild irritation may improve once exposure stops, but some symptoms require prompt assessment at a health facility. Immediate care is advised for worsening breathlessness, wheezing that does not improve after use of an inhaler, chest pain, fever accompanied by persistent phlegm-producing cough, or eye pain with blurred vision.
“See a health facility immediately if you experience worsening shortness of breath or wheezing that doesn't improve with an inhaler, chest pain, fever with a persistent cough with phlegm, or eye pain and blurred vision,” said the clinical educator in the Division of Endocrinology, Immunology, and Infection at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM).
Volcanic ash may look like a temporary remnant after an eruption, but it can return to the air repeatedly until rain or thorough cleanup removes it. Continued caution, proper respiratory protection, safe handling of food and water, and early attention to warning symptoms can help communities reduce the health burden during the recovery period.
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