Air quality prompts Hong Kong government warning

The Hong Kong government has issued a health warning after measurements of air quality in the area suggested that there could be concerns for people with heart and lung disorders.

According to the Environmental Protection Department, the air pollution index went above 100 at the Central district and Causeway Bay roadside stations - reaching 116 and 120 respectively - while the facility in Mong Kok recorded 87.

These levels are high enough for the state to issue a government health warning to residents in the area, with car exhausts and power stations identified as some of the main contributors to the problem, according to the Independent Online.

People with asthma and cardiovascular illnesses have been advised to cut down on the amount of exercise they carry out and reduce their outdoor activities as a result of the air quality.

This week, the World Health Organization revealed that air quality is a significant factor in the deaths of one in 2000 babies in Europe, as a result of respiratory diseases.