Kuala lumpur: Malaysia has not recorded a significant increase in haze-related illnesses so far, but the Ministry of Health (MOH) does not rule out a rise in cases if air quality worsens or the haze persists. The MOH said no increase had been recorded so far in the three types of haze-related illnesses, namely upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), asthma, and conjunctivitis, monitored through sentinel health facilities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MOH reported that monitoring so far has found no significant increase in cases in any state compared with the situation before the haze. In Sarawak, the MOH stated that monitoring at 12 sentinel health clinics recorded a decline in URTI cases, from 1,473 in Epidemiological Week (EW) 31, before the haze, to 1,347 in EW 32. Asthma cases fell from 195 to 122, while conjunctivitis cases rose from 15 to 43.
The MOH highlighted that children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses are at greater risk of being affected by haze. It explained that children have a higher respiratory rate, resulting in greater exposure to haze particles and potential health effects. Furthermore, haze can have adverse effects on chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and heart disease.
The ministry noted that fine particles in haze can penetrate deep into the lungs, triggering inflammation and shortness of breath, while increasing the risk of heart attacks, acute attacks, and hospitalisation. Therefore, people with chronic diseases are advised to avoid exposure to haze to prevent their conditions from worsening. They should also follow their doctors' advice and take their medication regularly.
The MOH anticipates an increase in haze-related illnesses if the haze persists or air quality worsens, with all health facilities instructed to remain on alert. It is monitoring haze-related illnesses at health facilities located near the Department of Environment's air quality monitoring stations. A total of 68 health facilities have been selected to monitor haze-related illnesses, with data collection increased from weekly before the haze to daily during the haze.
The MOH stated that so far, there had been no significant increase in hospital admissions or emergency cases linked to the haze. However, it will continue monitoring the situation and take appropriate action to treat patients with haze-related illnesses.
Meanwhile, the MOH advised the public to avoid outdoor physical activities to reduce exposure to haze, as increased breathing rates during physical activity can result in more suspended particles entering the respiratory tract. The public is also advised to stay indoors as much as possible and, if they need to go outside, limit their time outdoors and use appropriate face masks.
The ministry further recommended that windows should be kept closed to reduce haze entering homes or buildings and urged the public to avoid smoking and other activities that could increase indoor air pollution. When driving, the public is also advised to use air conditioning in recirculation mode and drink plenty of plain water, with at least eight glasses a day recommended to stay hydrated.
The MOH stated that indoor air quality can also be improved by using air conditioning and high-efficiency air filters or purifiers to remove fine particles and prevent the entry of polluted air from outside. Those who are unwell are advised to seek immediate treatment at the nearest health facility, while information on measures to reduce the health effects of haze is available on the MOH's InfoSihat website.
Finally, the MOH urged the public not to engage in open burning or allow irresponsible parties to trespass on their land or premises for such activities.