The vog is taking its toll on people's health and not just those prone to lung problems. Doctors say the airborne particles and toxic gases are something everyone should be careful of, and there are precautions to take.

When this air gets in your system, watch out.

"Generally a feeling of what we call malaise, you just feel bad. You feel bad all over. you might have burning eyes and nose, you might have a cough," said Dr Bruce Soll, a doctor at the Queen’s Medical Center and John Burns School of Medicine.

Here's the science behind it

"There is particulate matter and this can be filtered out and quantified, and there are toxic gases as well, the most notable as sulfur dioxide. it's an irritant so when you inhale it into your lungs it irritates the airways and produces cough, mucus production, and brochospasm," said Dr. Soll.

Things people in Hawaii are feeling at a rate not seen in decades.

"It's worse now than it has been in my recollection, i've been in hawaii over 30 years and this is about as bad as I've seen it," said Dr. Soll.

It's even worse for people very old or very young or those with chronic problems already

"People with lung disease, especially asthma, emphasyma, chronic bronchitis they'll have a terrible time, as well as people with congestive heart failure as well," said Dr Soll.

He says the best way to avoid it is to stay inside, especially with the heat and humidity compounding the problem.

"I'll recommend that they turn on the air conditioning, and if they don't have air conditioning, I'll advise them to go to an air-conditioned mall and just stay there."

But what about two big outdoor events this weekend? The 30th annual visitor industry charity walk on Saturday, and the Honolulu triathlon Sunday?

“We're prepared. We've got plenty of water, plenty of medical out here to make sure that people don't have problems," said Steve Foster from the Honolulu Triathlon.

He says participants with lung issues may want to think twice or be absolutely sure they're taking all precautions.

"If they have asthma or any type of respiratory problem then they need to take that into consideration as an athlete,” said Foster.

"For the triathlon and the charity walk, people are going to have a tough time. I would advise them to take it easy and listen to your body. Stay well hydrated and don't try to break any world records."

Vog Health Tips:

Reduce contact with the volcanic emissions by remaining inside, in air conditioning (closed vent) when possible.

Avoid vigorous outside activity.

Drink plenty of fluids to loosen mucus.

Warm beverages seem to work best.

Keep any needed medication at hand and in adequate supply.

Contact your physician if you have any health problems, especially with breathing.