Edwards coal-fired power plant near Bartonville. Evidence shows that living in counties with more fine particle air pollution increases your chances of dying from COVID-19.

Evidence shows that living in counties with more fine particle air pollution increases your chances of dying from COVID-19. For HOI Group members living near coal-fired power plants or other industrial or ag facilities that have the very small PM 2.5 air particulate matter, this is a real concern. This problem has been reported for European countries also, noting that deaths from the virus are higher in locations with worse air pollution with about 78% of the highest death rates in the five most polluted regions, noting that more studies need to be done. 

What can you do? Phone your U.S. Representative to let them know that you want clean air and clean water and that you oppose roll-backs of U.S. environmental protection regulations. Ask for a written response back and provide your address.

Below are some links about the impact of air pollution on COVID-19 mortality.

Harvard University - COVID-19 PM2.5  A national study on long-term exposure to air pollution and COVID-19 mortality in the United States

The Guardian - Air pollution linked to far higher Covid-19 death rates, study finds

New York Times - ‘Unbelievable’ Timing: As Coronavirus Rages, Trump Disregards Advice to Tighten Clean Air Rules