Residents turn their noses up at nasal index

Pollution gauge suspected of being profit engine for firm

SHANGHAI - The Shanghai Meteorological Bureau withdrew its newly released nasal rinse index on Wednesday, only two days after its start, amid increasing public questions over whether it is misleading and profit-driven.

The index, which advises local residents to rinse their nasal cavities between one and six times a day to prevent respiratory diseases, depending on the day's air quality, was purported to be the first of its kind in the nation.