Volcanic ash consists of rock, mineral, and volcanic glass fragments smaller than 2 mm (0.1 inch) in diameter, which is slightly larger than the size of a pinhead. Volcanic ash is not the same as the soft fluffy ash that results from burning wood, leaves, or paper. It is hard, does not dissolve in water, and can be extremely small--ash particles less than 0.025 mm (1/1,000th of an inch) in diameter are common.
17 April 2010
There is no change today to current health protection advice following latest information provided by the Met Office about the plume of volcanic ash. The ash is mixing in different layers of the atmosphere with small amounts reaching ground level.
The Met Office has advised that no major changes in ground level air pollution concentrations are expected over the UK during the weekend as a result of weather patterns. However it is not possible to predict whether there will be any changes in the pattern of volcanic eruptions and the situation is being kept under close scrutiny.
It is possible that there might be some light rain during the weekend which may cause low concentrations of Icelandic volcanic ash to be deposited across the United Kingdom.
It is important to recognise that the volcanic ash poses no health threat in wet weather as the particles cannot be inhaled under these conditions.
In the event of rain it is anticipated that only very low concentrations of volcanic ash would be deposited in fields and towns and there are unlikely to be significant health effects among the general public when the rain dries.
However, because small quantities of volcanic ash could float back up into the air in windy conditions it would be sensible for people with existing respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma to ensure they keep their inhalers or other medications with them.
If people are outside and notice symptoms such as itchy or irritated eyes, runny nose, sore throat or dry cough, or if they notice a dusty haze in the air or can smell sulphur, rotten eggs, or a strong acidic smell, they may wish to limit their activities outdoors or return indoors.
Any such health effects are likely to be short term. The Health Protection Agency, Health Protection Scotland, Public Health Wales and the Met Office will continue to monitor the situation and issue any further advice or updates as necessary.
Any enquiries on the likely duration of the ash plume over the UK should be addressed to the Met Office. Concerns about allotments and gardens should be addressed to the Food Standards Agency.
Children’s Health and Volcanic Ash
Volcanic ash consists of tiny pieces of rock and glass that is spread over large areas by wind. During volcanic ash fall, people should take measures to avoid unnecessary exposure to airborne ash and gases.
Short-term exposure to ash usually does not cause significant health problems for the general public, but special precautions should be taken to protect susceptible people such as infants and children. Most volcanic gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide blow away quickly. Sulfur dioxide is an irritant volcanic gas that can cause the airways to narrow especially in people with asthma. Precaution should be taken to ensure that children living close to the volcano or in low-lying areas (where gases may accumulate) are protected from respiratory and eye irritation.
While children face the same health problems from volcanic ash particles suspended in the air as adults (namely respiratory and irritation of the nose, throat, and eyes), they may be more vulnerable to exposure due to their smaller physical size, developing respiratory systems, and decreased ability to avoid unnecessary exposure. Small volcanic ash particles - those less than 10 micrometers in diameter - pose the greatest health concern because they can pass through the nose and throat and get deep into the lungs. This size range includes fine particles, with diameters less than 2.5 micrometers, and coarse particles, which range in size from 2.5 to 10 micrometers in diameter. Particles larger than 10 micrometers do not usually reach the lungs, but they can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. The volcanic ash may exacerbate the symptoms of children suffering from existing respiratory illnesses such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, or tuberculosis.
Precautions for Children if Ash is Present
1. Always pay attention to warnings and obey instructions from local authorities.
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Check the Air Quality Index forecast (at www.airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=airnow.local) for your area.
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Stay alert to news reports about volcanic ash warnings.
2. Keep children indoors.
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Children should avoid running or strenuous activity during ash fall. Exertion leads to heavier breathing, which can draw ash particles deeper into the lungs.
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Parents may want to plan indoor games and activities that minimize activity when ash is present.
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If your family must be outdoors when there is ash in the air, they should wear a disposable mask. If no disposable masks are available, make-shift masks can be made by moistening fabric such as handkerchiefs to help to block out large ash particles.
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Volcanic ash can irritate the skin; long-sleeved shirts and long pants should be worn if children must go outdoors.
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Children should not play in areas where ash is deep or piled-up, especially if they are likely to roll or lie in the ash piles.
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Children should wear glasses instead of contact lens to avoid eye irritation.
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Create a “clean room” where children sleep and play to help to minimize exposure to ash in indoor air.
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Keep windows and doors closed. Close any vents or air ducts (such as chimneys) that may allow ash to enter the house.
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Run central air conditioners on the “recirculate” option (instead of “outdoor air intake”). Clean the air filter to allow good air flow indoors.
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Avoid vacuuming as it will stir up ash and dust into the air.
Oh, to live in a toxin-free world.. 
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