Cases of haze-related illnesses monitored by the Health Ministry fell sharply in the latest epidemiological week, with upper respiratory tract infections, asthma and conjunctivitis all recording double-digit declines.
The ministry said upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) cases dropped 20.18% to 5,639 in Epidemiological Week 37 of 2026 from 7,065 cases in the previous week, a reduction of 1,426 cases.
Asthma cases recorded the biggest decline, falling 35.36% to 722 from 1,117, while conjunctivitis cases decreased 32.04% to 227 from 334.
The figures were based on daily monitoring through 78 haze sentinel health facilities nationwide.
Despite the decline, the ministry said it would continue closely monitoring haze-related illnesses and their impact on public health, particularly in areas where air quality remains unhealthy.
As of 7am today, 16 air quality monitoring stations recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index readings, including 10 areas in Sarawak, two in Selangor and one each in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Negeri Sembilan and Sabah. No stations recorded very unhealthy or hazardous readings.
The haze situation has now entered its seventh week, with air quality continuing to vary according to location and time.
The ministry said it has maintained daily surveillance of URTI, asthma and conjunctivitis, assessed air quality readings alongside health surveillance data and activated the National Haze Operations Room since Sept 4.
It has also ensured healthcare facilities remain prepared with medicines, oxygen supplies and relevant medical equipment, while intensifying health education and risk communication.
The ministry advised the public to reduce outdoor activities during hazy conditions, particularly strenuous physical activities, and for high-risk groups such as children, senior citizens and those with chronic respiratory or heart conditions to limit outdoor exposure.
Those with existing respiratory or heart conditions should continue taking their prescribed medication and seek medical attention if symptoms develop or worsen.
