Following the volcanic eruption in the south western part of Iceland's Eyjafjallajoekull glacier, there is no change to current health protection advice. The ash continues to mix in different layers of the atmosphere with small amounts reaching ground level.

The Met Office has advised that no major changes in ground level air pollution concentrations are expected over the UK as a result of current weather patterns.

It is likely that there will be rain in various parts of the UK and this may cause low concentrations of Icelandic volcanic ash to be deposited across the United Kingdom.  It is important to recognise that the volcanic ash poses no health threat in wet weather as the particles cannot be inhaled under these conditions.

In the event of rain, it is anticipated that only very low concentrations of volcanic ash would be deposited in fields and towns and there are unlikely to be significant health effects among the general public when the rain dries. The British Lung Foundation is advising people in affected areas who have a lung condition, to carry their medication as a precaution, as they may experience short-term worsening of symptoms.

If people are outside and notice symptoms such as itchy or irritated eyes, runny nose, sore throat or dry cough, or if they notice a dusty haze in the air or can smell sulphur, rotten eggs, or a strong acidic smell, they may wish to limit their activities outdoors or return indoors. Any such health effects are likely to be short term.