Kuching: The Ministry of Health (MOH) is monitoring the increase in cases of acute respiratory tract infections (URTI) and conjunctivitis in Sarawak following the haze conditions affecting several areas in the state. Deputy Health Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib said continuous monitoring is being carried out through health facilities including health clinics and hospitals to ensure that any increase in cases related to the haze can be dealt with immediately.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Sarawak State Health Department (JKN) has reported an increase in the average number of URTI cases, rising from about 1,717 cases per week at the beginning of the year to 1,752 cases per week recently. Similarly, conjunctivitis cases have increased from an average of about 17 to 21 cases per week, while overall asthma activity remains stable at the state level.

"MOH is constantly monitoring the current situation including the trend of patient arrivals at health facilities and we want to ensure that facilities and health workers are prepared in case of an increase in cases due to the haze," Hanifah stated during her visit to the Jalan Oya Health Clinic. The visit was part of the Borneo Health Tour Series 4, emphasizing the Ministry of Health's preparedness in dealing with health situations related to haze.

Hanifah also advised the public, especially at-risk groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory problems, to take necessary precautions when the air quality is at unhealthy levels.