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  6. Air Quality and Lung Health in Harris County

Air Quality and Lung Health in Harris County

Common air pollutants can cause dangerous health effects. Air pollution triggers asthma episodes, sends people to hospitals, affects children’s lung development, and can even be deadly. Someone in every family is likely to be at increased risk from air pollution. 

Follow these tips to understand poor air quality and protect your health.

Who Is Most Affected By Outdoor Pollution?

Learn about the two main types of air pollution

Find out more about outdoor air pollution and common sources. 

Check the air quality in your area

Name Index Value Advisory
  Good 0 to 50 None
  Moderate 51 to 100 Usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion.
  Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups 101 to 150 Children, active adults, and people with respiratory disease, such as asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion.
  Unhealthy 151 to 200 Children, active adults, and people with respiratory disease, such as asthma, should avoid outdoor exertion; everyone else should limit prolonged outdoor exertion.
  Very Unhealthy 201 to 300 Children, active adults, and people with respiratory disease, such as asthma, should avoid outdoor exertion; everyone else should limit outdoor exertion.
  Hazardous 301 to 500 Everyone should avoid all physical activity outdoors.

Air pollution can harm anyone, but it can be especially dangerous for many people, including children and teens, people with asthma and other lung diseases, anyone over 65, people who have diabetes or cardiovascular disease or who are pregnant. Being aware of when the air quality is bad gives you the chance to take steps to protect your health. To see your local air quality visit AirNow.gov.

Stay informed about the air quality in your area

  • Download the AirNow Mobile App to easily check your air quality each day. 
  • Register to receive Air Quality Forecast and Ozone Action Day Alerts from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

How can I protect myself or a loved one?

If you live with a lung disease (like asthma or COPD) or care for someone with a lung disease, it’s especially important to take extra precautions when the air quality is poor. Start by understanding which days you need to take additional steps: Download information on Orange Air Quality Days (PDF). Then follow the guidance below for your condition.

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Page last updated: February 24, 2026

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