Impact of the Tajogaite Volcano eruption on symptoms and pulmonary function in a paediatric population

The Tajogaite Volcano (La Palma, Spain) erupted in September 2021 for 85 days, releasing gases, ash and lava over populated areas. Data on the respiratory effects of volcanic emissions in children remain limited. The aim of the present study was to describe the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and lung function patterns in a paediatric population exposed to emissions from the Tajogaite Volcano.

A cross-sectional study with a follow-up component was conducted in a high-exposure area. A total of 188 children aged 6-18 years were interviewed 10-17 months after the eruption. Sociodemographic data, medical history and symptom records during and after the eruption were collected. Post-eruption lung function was assessed using spirometry, diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (D _LCO) and exhaled nitric oxide fraction (F _ENO).

During the eruption, 25-50% of participants reported respiratory symptoms, mainly in the upper airway (itching and nasal congestion). Post eruption, ocular symptoms decreased (p<0.05), whereas cough, headache, nasal congestion, sore throat and skin problems persisted. Symptom frequency and persistence were higher among children with a history of asthma or environmental tobacco smoke exposure (p<0.05). Post eruption, 6.4% of participants had reduced forced expiratory volume in 1 s and/or reduced forced vital capacity, 15.2% showed decreased D _LCO (below the fifth percentile according to the Global Lung Function Initiative reference equations) and 44% had F _ENO ≥20 ppb.

Children and adolescents exposed to the Tajogaite Volcano eruption presented a high prevalence and persistence of respiratory symptoms, particularly those with environmental tobacco smoke exposure or underlying respiratory conditions. Including D _LCO and F _ENO in spirometric evaluation may help detect respiratory abnormalities and support further longitudinal monitoring.