HEALTH experts are warning people to take care as unusually high levels of air pollution are expected today.

While the worst hit area will be the South East of the country, Swindon pollution levels are set to reach ‘high’.

This is due to locally generated particulate matter combining with pollution blown in from the near continent and a contribution from Saharan dust.

It is most likely to affect the elderly and anyone who has lung or heart difficulties.

Dr Sotiris Vardoulakis, head of the air pollution and climate change group at Public Health England’s Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards said: “PHE provides advice to Defra on the health effects of air pollution.

“While most people will not be affected by short term peaks in air pollution, some individuals, particularly those with existing heart or lung conditions, may experience increased symptoms.

“On occasions where levels are high, adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, should reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, and particularly if they experience symptoms. People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often. Older people should also reduce physical exertion. Anyone experiencing discomfort such as sore eyes, cough or sore throat should consider reducing activity, particularly outdoors.

“Some parts of the country may record ‘very high’ levels of air pollution. PHE is advising people in those areas to reduce physical exertion, particularly outdoors, especially if they experience symptoms such as a cough or sore throat. Adults and children with lung problems, adults with heart problems, and older people, should avoid strenuous physical activity. People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often.”