VALLETTA, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- Malta's health authorities alerted the public about the possible health effects of volcanic ash reaching Malta following the eruption of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy on Friday.

The effects on health depend on various factors, including ongoing eruptions and the wind's speed and direction, which are not predicable and as a result of which effects can vary, the authorities said.

Effects of ash on health may be divided into several categories: respiratory effects, eye symptoms, and skin irritation depending on the exposure.

Monitoring the weather reports is advised, and people who are more at risk are advised to take special care to limit exposure and stay indoors when possible, to keep windows and doors closed.

Mount Etna, the highest and most active volcano in Europe, erupted on Monday and triggered a 4.8 magnitude earthquake.

Volcanic ash was reported to have appeared over Malta on Thursday.