How Does Wildfire Smoke Impact Kids' Health?

Wildfires don't have to be nearby to put children at risk. Wildfire smoke can travel hundreds of miles, turning the air children breathe into a health hazard which sometimes happens before families even realize they're being exposed. For pediatricians, the question is no longer if children will encounter wildfire smoke, but what happens when they do and what can we do about it?

This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor at the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics Conference in San Diego, California. Joining us are Vi Nguyen, MD, and Quang-Tuyen Nguyen, MD. Dr. Vi Nguyen is the Green Lead and Sustainability Physician Lead for Kaiser San Diego. She is also the co-founder of San Diego Pediatricians for Clean Air. Dr. Quang-Tuyen Nguyen is an associate professor and the vice chair for health, equity, respect and opportunity, also known as HERO, at the University of Utah Health.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• What happens when children breathe particles of wildfire smoke
• The most common symptoms pediatricians should expect to see after a child has been exposed
• Why this isn't just an issue for pediatricians practicing where fires are active
• Important messaging for families

For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.

This episode is underwritten by Ovintiv, a proud philanthropic supporter of Charting Pediatrics and the Children's Hospital Colorado Foundation. Ovintiv recognizes that their responsibility begins in the communities where they live and work. They are committed to giving back and building safer and more resilient communities. Ovintiv's generous support has made a monumental difference for our patients and families, from enhancing health outcomes to reducing health disparities.