Spike in haze- related illnesses
Published on: Monday, September 23, 2019
By: Iffah Delaney
LABUAN: The number of patients are seeking treatments for conjunctivitis, asthma and skin rashes have spiked due to the prolonged haze season.
Health Ministry Director-General Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said there has been an average increase of 40 per cent in haze-borne medical cases nationwide to date.
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“The increase in the number of cases varied in different regions.
“Regions which recorded a higher Air Pollutant Index (API) saw more frequent cases of respiratory infections, pink-eye (conjunctivitis), and skin rashes,” he shared.
Dr Noor Hisham advised the public to stay indoors as much as possible and to reduce physical activities outdoors, only heading out when needed.
“When going outside, it is best to take the necessary steps to reduce their chances at being affected by the haze.
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“Use face masks when conducting outdoor activities and constantly wash the face and any body parts exposed to the haze. Hydration too is very important,” he told reporters after the Labuan Health Department’s Excellent Service Awards presentation here on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Labuan Health Department Director Dr Ismuni Bohari disclosed that the island has only recorded an increase of less than five per cent in haze-related illnesses.
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“So far the Air Pollutant Index (API) in Labuan has remained at moderate level between 70 and 80.
“Nevertheless, my department has conducted a surveillance and found that there has been no significant rise or any notable cases thus far,” he said.
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