Air pollution in the Philadelphia area is dropping significantly due to the region’s partial shutdown to stop the spread of the coronavirus, writes Catalina Jaramillo for the WHYY.

As the shutdown continues, the air quality is expected to keep improving. The dramatic reductions in the number of people driving to work and school busses is bringing down the amount of nitrogen dioxide emitted from burning fossil fuels in the air. This gas is known to worsen coughs and reduce lung function, among other things.

The decrease in pollution will have a positive effect on people’s health, even if it only lasts for two weeks, said Marilyn Howarth, director of community outreach and engagement at the University of Pennsylvania’s Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology.

“It’s significant for reducing asthma exacerbation and heart disease and heart attacks,” said Howarth. “And it will probably have positive impacts on babies, pregnant women, and other vulnerable populations.”

The cleaner air also makes it easier for anyone who has contracted coronavirus, as experts have linked air pollution to the higher death rate among people with COVID-19.

Read more about the issue at the WHYY by clicking here.
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