Malaysia Sees Sharp Rise in Asthma and Respiratory Infections Amid Haze

KUALA LUMPUR  — Malaysia has recorded a sharp increase in asthma and upper respiratory tract infection cases as haze and deteriorating air quality affect several parts of the country, raising concerns over the health impact of prolonged exposure to air pollution.

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Health, asthma cases surged 259%, rising from 61 to 219 cases between August 9 and 22. During the same period, cases of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) increased 124%, from 1,637 to 3,674.

The increase comes as haze continues to affect several areas of Malaysia, with air pollution reaching levels classified as unhealthy in multiple locations.

Air Quality Reaches Unhealthy Levels in Seven Areas

As of 8 a.m. on Sunday, the Air Pollutant Index (API) had reached unhealthy levels in seven areas across the country.

Five of the affected areas were in Sarawak, in northern Borneo, where Serian recorded an API reading of 197, followed by Kuching at 185, Sri Aman at 178, Samarahan at 176, and Sarikei at 128.

Elsewhere, Sungai Petani in Kedah and Taiping in Perak both recorded API readings of 126.

Under Malaysia’s air quality classification system, API readings between 0 and 50 are considered good, while readings from 51 to 100 are classified as moderate.

Readings between 101 and 200 are considered unhealthy, 201 to 300 are classified as very unhealthy, and readings above 300 are regarded as hazardous.

Haze Can Aggravate Respiratory Conditions

Haze and poor air quality can pose particular health risks to people with existing respiratory conditions, including asthma.

Air pollution can irritate the respiratory system and may aggravate symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, throat irritation and breathing difficulties, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Children, older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions may be more susceptible to the effects of deteriorating air quality.

The sharp increase in asthma and respiratory infection cases has highlighted the importance of monitoring symptoms and reducing unnecessary exposure when air pollution reaches unhealthy levels.

Malaysia Also Reports Heat-Related Illnesses

Malaysia is simultaneously dealing with health concerns related to hot weather.

The Ministry of Health reported 90 cases of heat-related illness between July 26 and August 15.

Of those cases, 71 involved heat exhaustion, while 14 were classified as heatstroke and another five involved heat cramps.

Heatstroke is the most serious form of heat-related illness and can become a medical emergency if body temperature rises rapidly and the body is unable to cool itself effectively.

Health authorities have advised the public to take precautions during periods of extreme heat, including limiting excessive exposure to direct sunlight and remaining alert to symptoms associated with heat-related illness.

Public Urged to Reduce Exposure and Monitor Symptoms

As Malaysia faces the combined effects of haze, poor air quality and high temperatures, health authorities are encouraging people to take appropriate precautions and closely monitor their health.

During periods when the API reaches unhealthy levels, reducing prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities may help limit exposure to air pollution, particularly for people in higher-risk groups.

People experiencing persistent breathing difficulties, worsening asthma symptoms or signs of serious heat-related illness should seek medical attention promptly.

With air quality conditions capable of changing throughout the day, residents in affected areas are also encouraged to monitor official air quality information and follow public health guidance as the haze situation develops.

 

Source : Xinhua Thai News