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Public Health

Wildfires pose serious risks to public health, both during and long after a fire.

Beyond deaths and injuries caused directly by flames, wildfire smoke and air pollution can affect communities far from the affected area, increasing respiratory and cardiovascular risks and placing pressure on health systems. Explore the latest research, insights and resources on the health impacts of wildfires and the measures needed to reduce risk and protect vulnerable populations.

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Research briefs
USA: Health symptoms months after Marshall Fire

Wildfires that burn homes and vehicles could expose people to dangerous airborne compounds through ash and smok

American Chemical Society
Man on the phone looking at a wildfire in a residential area in California, USA (2021).
Update
USA: Growing risk of long-term exposure to wildfire smoke

Millions of people across the Los Angeles area are being exposed to wildfire smoke as fires burn through homes and vehicles. As fires become more frequent, long-term and repeated exposure to smoke is a quickly-rising concern.

Conversation Media Group, the
Update
Extreme heat and wildfire smoke: Consequences for communities

Emerging research suggests that the combined impact of extreme heat and wildfire may be worse than the sum of their individual impacts. These combined impacts may put additional pressure on already vulnerable communities and healthcare systems.

Federation of American Scientists
Research briefs
USA: Lower access to AC may increase wildfire smoke health risks

A new study suggests that people who have limited access to air conditioning may be at higher risk of seeking emergency care for health problems following exposure to LA wildfire smoke.

Boston University
Update
US: Wildfire smoke inside homes can create health risks that linger

Research shows that the mix of chemicals released when human-made materials like these burn is different from what is emitted during a vegetation fire and is potentially more toxic.

Conversation Media Group, the
2023 Canadian wildfires in Nova Scotia
Update
USA: Health impact of Cali. wildfires to be felt for years to come

The most immediate concern for health journalists covering the wildfire crisis in California is the impact of smoke on human health. It's crucial for health journalists to highlight the disproportionate impact of wildfires on certain populations.

Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ)
Update
USA: Climate and health: Stories to watch in 2025

With primary care doctors ranked as the most trusted source of information on these health effects, medical professionals have a unique opportunity to educate the public about the far-reaching health impacts of our changing environment.

Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ)
Research briefs
Research find compromised indoor air in homes following Marshall Fire

First-of-its-kind study finds gases harmful to human health lingered for weeks following the fire.

Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES)
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