Canadians are preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime chance in early April, but there are certain health hazards to be aware of. As Canadians prepare, a complete solar eclipse will occur over North America, including Mexico and the United States.
While solar eclipses occur every 18 months, many of them are invisible to the naked eye. This is because the bulk of solar eclipses passes over the Pacific and Atlantic seas for around 60 percent of the time. That is why the forthcoming total solar eclipse is generating news.
What Is A Total Solar Eclipse?
According to NASA, a total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, totally obscuring the Sun and bathing the Earth in darkness as if it were day or twilight.
What Are Some Health Risks When It Comes To A Solar Eclipse?
As the total solar eclipse draws near, it’s important to consider the potential health risks associated with large-scale events. While traffic congestion may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can significantly impact access to essential supplies, potentially affecting the health of residents.
Let’s say somebody relies on medication. They may be unable to get to the pharmacy because of the traffic congestion. So, there are some very unique aspects and people can prepare for that.
Despite the allure of the eclipse, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential health risks. Large gatherings can increase the risk of injury and transmission of infectious diseases like measles or the flu. Medical professionals strongly advise individuals to take necessary precautions, like distancing or wearing masks, especially in enclosed spaces, and ensure they’re up-to-date on vaccines for diseases like measles.
One of the most significant health risks associated with a solar eclipse is also one of the most obvious: staring directly into the Sun. This danger persists whether it’s the day of an eclipse or not, as highlighted by Dr. Martin Spiro, President of the Canadian Associate of Optometrists.
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Why Is A Solar Eclipse So Dangerous To Look At?
“Damaging the retina is definitely the most serious risk,” Spiro warns of gazing straight into an eclipse. “And the one that could cause permanent vision loss.”
Looking directly at an eclipse may burn a similar pattern onto your retina, resulting in central vision loss, a disease known as
