Yellow Sand, also known as Asian Dust, refers to inhalable particles that originate from desert regions in China and Mongolia. When present in high concentrations, the fine particles can reduce visibility, irritate soft tissues, and exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Yellow Sand events typically occur between February and June. During these events, it is recommended to avoid outdoor activities, keep windows and doors closed, and remove contact lenses. After the event clears, it is important to air out rooms and wash objects exposed to the dust.

1. Yellow Sand/Asian Dust – 황사 (HwangSa)
What is it? Inhalable particles that originate from dry,
desertregions of China and Mongolia.
Whatdoes it do? In sufficientconcentration,fine
particles can obscure visibility,irritate soft tissues
in the eyes,nose,mouth,and throat,and cause
or exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular
problems.
When does it happen? Yellow Sand eventsusually
occurfrom Februarythrough June.
Whatcan I do?
During the Yellow Sand/duststorm:
• Avoid outdooractivities,especiallythe elderly,
young children,and persons with lung diseases
(such as asthma),heartdisease ordiabetes;see
otherside of card for activity restriction
recommendations
• Keep windowsand doors closed
• Removecontactlenses and wearglasses
• Brush yourteeth and wash yourhands,face and
eyes with warm water upon returning indoors
• Drink plenty of water to keep yourtears flowing well
• Use air filters to keep air clear, and humidifierto
increaseindoorhumidity level
• Wash fruits and vegetables exposedto Yellow
Sand beforeconsumption
• Wash hands carefullybeforehandling food
• Don’tburn candles and don’tsmoke indoors
Afterthe Yellow Sand/duststorm has cleared:
• Air out room/house
• Wash objects exposed to dustbefore using them –
do this carefully to keep from stirring up the dust
Checkthe currentYellow Sand concentration at http://www.korea.amedd.army.mil/webapp/yellowSand/
or click on Yellow Sand. For more information,contact65th MedicalBrigade Force Health Protection Officeat
737-1741
Normal Day in Seoul
<100 ug/m3
A Yellow Sand Day in Seoul
>1000 ug/m3

2. Yellow Sand Activity Restriction Recommendations
FOR THE LATESTYELLOW SAND LEVELSGO TO
http://www.korea.amedd.army.mil/webapp/yellowSand/
or call DSN 737-1741
Commanders,Supervisors,and SchoolLeaders should:
• Identify individuals athigh risk and implementappropriate protective measures
• Include Asian dustconditions in Training RiskAssessments
*High Risk:
• People with breathing problems suchas
asthma,emphysema,orCOPD
• Persons with heartdisease
• Respiratory tractinfections suchas colds orinfluenza
*Heavy Exertion
• Outdoorrecess ororganized sports activities
• Aerobic exercisessuch as running orruck marching
• Mowing lawns with a push mower