Department of Health Warns of High PM2.5 Levels, Urges Public to Avoid Outdoor Activities

The Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health, has warned that PM2.5 dust levels are still high in several areas, including Bangkok, posing a risk to public health. The pollution is causing respiratory irritation among the population. The department advises the public to take extra care of their health, wear masks, avoid outdoor activities, and closely monitor the air quality, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Amporn Benjaponpitak, MD., Director-General of the Department of Health, revealed that as of January 15, 2026, three provinces Nonthaburi, Samut Sakhon, and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya along with Bangkok, are experiencing PM2.5 levels that affect health (red zone), with the highest recorded value at 95.8 micrograms per cubic meter in Bang Phut Subdistrict, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi. Additionally, 48 other provinces across various regions, including the North, Northeast, Central, East, South, and Greater Bangkok, have PM2.5 levels that are starting to affect health (orange zone). A survey conducted between January 1 and 15, 2026, revealed that 61.6% of the public reported symptoms related to PM2.5 exposure, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, coughing, and eye irritation.

Dr. Amporn further stated that due to the ongoing health risks posed by the dust, the Department of Health recommends the following safety precautions:

          1.Wear a mask that can filter fine particles, such as N95 or KN95 masks.

          2.Avoid prolonged outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions.

          3.Reduce activities that generate dust, such as burning incense, open burning, grilling, smoking, and using private vehicles. Regularly check your vehicle’s condition to minimize pollution.

          4.Close doors and windows tightly and clean your home frequently to reduce dust accumulation. If you have a dust-free room, use it.

          5.Check the air quality regularly before going outside through apps like Air4Thai, AirBKK, or Life Dee, and stay updated with news and alerts from relevant authorities.

The Department of Health forecasts that PM2.5 levels will likely remain above safe standards this week due to stagnant weather conditions that lead to the accumulation of pollution, coupled with increased open burning in many areas. Prolonged exposure or high levels of PM2.5 may cause coughing, sneezing, eye irritation, skin irritation, and respiratory issues, with potential long-term risks to cardiovascular health, particularly for those with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD. Long-term exposure may also increase the risk of lung cancer. The Department urges the public to take strict health precautions to reduce the potential impacts on health. For more information, people can contact the Department of Health’s hotline at 1478.

 

 

Source : Department of Health