Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 15: Demand for nebulisers, inhalers and respiratory medicines for children has surged significantly in Delhi during the winter months, with chemists reporting an increase of up to 60 per cent during periods of severe air pollution, a recent survey has revealed.

According to the survey, nearly one-third of all nebuliser purchases were meant for children, highlighting growing respiratory distress among younger age groups as air quality deteriorates. The study was conducted by ‘Warrior Moms’ in association with chemists across south, east, north and central Delhi last year, and was re-run this year with an expanded group of pharmacists.

Chemists said sales of commonly prescribed asthma and respiratory medicines such as Asthalin, Levolin, Budecort and Seroflo rose sharply between November and January, when pollution levels generally peak. In north Delhi, sales of certain inhalers increased by around 40 per cent, while outlets in central and south Delhi reported a 50 to 60 per cent spike in demand for nebulisers.

Parents frequently reported symptoms including persistent cough, wheezing, breathlessness and chest tightness in children. Many chemists observed that these complaints worsened during high-smog periods, particularly in the early mornings and evenings.

The survey also flagged supply challenges, with several pharmacies struggling to keep adequate stocks of high-demand products such as Duolin Respules and Budecort nebulising solutions during peak pollution months.

Terming the findings a serious public health warning, the report recommended advance stocking of respiratory aids, better supply chain management and increased public awareness, especially in schools, to help families cope with pollution-related respiratory illnesses during Delhi’s winter season.