Regional air authorities are advising San Joaquin Valley residents to spend more time indoors today and Wednesday and avoid strenuous activities or heavy exertion as gusty winds stir up dust.

People with heart or lung diseases should follow their doctors’ advice, said the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. Officials said older adults and children, whose lungs are more susceptible to dust and other air pollution, should limit their exposure.

“Take precautions to protect your health if you are in an area experiencing blowing dust,” said Gary Arcemont, senior air quality specialist with the district.

Such particle pollution can aggravate lung disease, cause asthma attacks and increase risk of respiratory infections. This pollution also has been linked to heart attacks, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

For more information, go to www.valleyair.org or call the district at (559) 230-6000.