Cases of upper respiratory tract infections rose by 10.43% in the latest reporting week amid ongoing haze, with 32 air quality monitoring stations recording unhealthy air pollution levels across eight states and two federal territories.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) said 3,875 cases were reported in Epidemiological Week 40, compared with 3,509 cases in Week 39.
As of 8 am today, the 32 monitoring stations recorded Air Pollutant Index (API) readings of between 101 and 200, indicating unhealthy air quality. The affected areas were in Johor, Selangor, Perak, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Pahang, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Sarawak and Penang.
However, no areas recorded very unhealthy or hazardous API levels.
Apart from upper respiratory tract infections, cases of conjunctivitis also increased by 26.47%, from 102 in Week 39 to 129 in Week 40. In contrast, asthma cases fell by 13.64%, from 535 to 462 over the same period.
The MOH said it was monitoring the health effects of the haze through 78 selected health facilities, as exposure to polluted air could pose greater risks to vulnerable groups, including children, older people, pregnant women and those with lung or heart conditions.
The ministry advised the public to minimise outdoor exposure and avoid or postpone outdoor activities, particularly strenuous exercise, while air quality remained poor. Those who need to be outdoors should consider wearing a suitable mask, such as an N95 respirator.
The public was also advised to keep windows closed, reduce indoor sources of air pollution and continue taking prescribed medication. Anyone experiencing a worsening cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing should seek medical attention promptly.
Members of the public can check the latest API readings through the Department of Environment’s official channels to guide their daily activities.
The MOH said it would continue monitoring the situation and ensure that health facilities had adequate medicines, supplies and personnel to respond to any increase in demand for medical care.
