As the fires continue to burn across NSW, it's important to be aware of the health effects of bushfire smoke, even for those of us living hundreds of kilometres away from the fires.

With pollution levels in Sydney 50 times higher than normal, many of us have experienced runny noses, burning eyes, a sore throat or coughing.

For people in high risk groups (people with heart or lung conditions, older people, young children), the effects are much worse, and can lead to a trip to the hospital.

see this link to ABC Health and Wellbeing for more information and tips for reducing the bushfire smoke's health effects.