Evgeny Avetissov from Moscow's European Medical Centre came to our studio to discuss the impact of peat fires near Moscow having on the health of Moscow residents, as harmful air pollution has has risen to three times above normal.

Russia Today: Evgeny, how about this problem? Have you seen a significant rise in patients with respiration problems?

Evgeny Avetissov: Sometimes it is difficult to say whether it is significant or not, But I can say we have some increase in the number of patients with respiratory problems because of this pollution, or because of different reasons.

RT: There has been a call for people to leave the city. Is that sensibly wise, or is that perhaps going over the top?

E.A.: Some people really leave the city because of this hot summer.

RT: Is it dangerous? Could it be harmful to your long-term health?

E.A.: To be honest, for most people it is not that dangerous, but for people who have problems with the respiratory tract like asthma or chronic bronchitis, any chronic problems with respiratory or cardio systems, it has a high risk of serious problems.

RT: But even some in this office here have been complaining of tight throats and feeling uncomfortable feelings. Could it perhaps trigger any allergy?

E.A.: You are absolutely right, that it is a trigger of allergic reaction, and not only. Some reactions are from chemical agents in the air.

RT: So, what should one do about it if you do feel unwell, getting a very sore throat? Is there anything you can do about it?

E.A.: It is always advisable to see a doctor, but it is better to prevent this situation. Stay at home if you see this serious air pollution. Or if you absolutely need to leave home, use a mask, or something like that.

RT: But, as we have said earlier, it is very hot here in the city at the moment. Opening windows is a natural thing to do if you do not have air conditioning. Would perhaps a fan be the right thing to do because obviously if you've overheating in the apartment this could have other detrimental effects.

E.A.: I think open windows could make air in your flat even more hot, than if they are closed. Closed windows are anyway better under this situation, absolutely.

RT: So it looks as if the problems are going to continue, the fires are still burning, the heat continues since. You advise is – if you do have any respiration problems – wear a mask.

E.A.: Yes, absolutely, you need to wear a mask, or maybe start to use the air conditioning, but you should be careful because air conditioning itself can make serious problem like pneumonia – or a respiratory tract problem.