Volcanic ash cloud over Europe

Possible health effects of the volcanic ash cloud

The WHO Regional Office for Europe is closely assessing the situation, including the possible health impact, of the Iceland volcanic eruption that began on 14 April 2010. The Office is in close contact with Member States of the WHO European Region, and with partners in the European Union, about preparedness and response measures. WHO believes that the risk to human health is very low, but it advises people to follow the most up-to-date advice from their national health, air quality assessment and meteorological authorities.

The International Volcanic Health Hazard Network publishes initial findings of a hazard assessment of ash from the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull volcano, Iceland

UK HPA publishes a paper on on the possible effects on health of exposure to volcanic ash and associated gases

WHO/Europe expert group concludes Icelandic volcanic ash currently poses no threat to public health

WHO/Europe holds expert meeting on health effects of volcanic ash

Important questions answered on the health effects of volcanic ash

No change in current WHO advice on potential health risks of volcanic ash cloud

Volcano eruption in Iceland will have minimal impact on health

Health Protection Agency - United Kingdom

Provides updated information on its web site

Met Office

Provides updated information on its web site

European project CITEAIR

Daily updates on the quality of air in cities across Europe