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542 N Lewis Rd, Suite 207 • Limerick, PA 19468
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Code Red Air Quality Alert

Given today's wildfire smoke impacts from Canada and Minnesota, Pennsylvania is under a statewide Code Red Air Quality Alert on July 16, 2026, due to elevated PM2.5 particle pollution. These conditions are considered unhealthy for everyone, with the greatest risk to patients with COPD, asthma, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, lung cancer, and other chronic respiratory conditions.

Current Situation

Smoke from ongoing Canadian wildfires is affecting air quality throughout Pennsylvania and much of the Northeast.

The primary concern is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), microscopic particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.

Air quality levels today may be unhealthy for both healthy individuals and those with chronic lung disease.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Patients with:

  • COPD/emphysema
  • Asthma
  • Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
  • Pulmonary fibrosis
  • Pulmonary hypertension
  • Lung cancer
  • Bronchiectasis

Older adults and those with underlying heart disease are also at higher risk.

Symptoms to Watch For

Patients should seek medical attention if they experience:

  • Increased shortness of breath
  • Wheezing
  • Persistent coughing
  • Chest tightness
  • Increased mucus production
  • Dizziness or unusual fatigue
  • Need for rescue inhaler more often than usual
  • Oxygen saturation below their normal baseline

Protective Measures

Stay Indoors

  • Keep windows and doors closed.
  • Avoid outdoor exercise, yard work, or unnecessary outdoor exposure.
  • If possible, remain in an air-conditioned environment.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

  • Run HVAC systems on recirculation mode.
  • Replace HVAC filters if overdue.
  • Use HEPA air purifiers in frequently used rooms.
  • Avoid activities that worsen indoor air pollution such as burning candles, fireplaces, or smoking.

If You Must Go Outdoors

  • Limit time outside.
  • Wear a properly fitted N95 or KN95 mask.
  • Surgical masks and cloth masks do not effectively filter wildfire smoke particles.

Medication Guidance

  • Continue maintenance inhalers exactly as prescribed.
  • Keep rescue inhalers readily available.
  • Ensure adequate medication supply for the next several days.
  • Patients on home oxygen should verify equipment is functioning properly and maintain backup supplies when possible.

In Conclusion

Wildfire smoke can trigger significant respiratory symptoms even in patients whose lung disease is usually stable. Early symptom recognition and minimizing smoke exposure are the most effective strategies to prevent exacerbations and emergency department visits.

Today's air quality is a serious concern for pulmonary patients. We recommend limiting outdoor exposure, monitoring symptoms closely, following prescribed treatment plans, and contacting your healthcare provider if breathing worsens from baseline.

For patients in the Reading/Wyomissing area, today's Pennsylvania DEP statewide Code Red alert means precautions should be taken throughout the region, even if smoke is not visibly dense at all times.