The hazards of wildfire smoke exposure for children

Studies evaluating the health impacts of climate change, predict that the frequency and intensity of wildfires will increase as climate change creates longer, warmer, and drier seasons. Although respiratory morbidity in the immediate aftermath of wildfires is well documented for pediatric populations, other acute and chronic health effects from wildfires for pediatric populations are less well known. This manuscript addresses questions that arise for families, healthcare providers and school districts in areas affected by wildfires and reviews key messages that healthcare providers may provide to pediatric patients and families to minimize adverse health effects from exposure to the smoke and ash from wildfires.