Thailand Warns of PM2.5 Health Risks in Southern Provinces Amid Indonesian Wildfire Haze

Thailand's Department of Medical Services has issued a health advisory over transboundary haze linked to wildfires in Indonesia, warning that PM2.5 air pollution may affect respiratory and cardiovascular health in southern Thailand. Children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with underlying medical conditions are advised to take additional precautions.

Thailand's Department of Medical Services has urged residents in the country's lower southern provinces to monitor air quality and reduce exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) amid concerns over transboundary haze from forest fires in Indonesia.

Dr. Weerawut Imsamran, Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, stated that the Ministry of Public Health is closely monitoring potential health impacts associated with wildfire smoke originating from Sumatra and Kalimantan, Indonesia.

According to the department's announcement, the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) issued a Level 3 transboundary haze alert, the highest alert level, for the southern ASEAN region.

The advisory emphasizes the importance of following official air quality updates and taking appropriate preventive measures, particularly among vulnerable populations.

How PM2.5 Air Pollution Affects the Lungs and Heart

PM2.5 refers to fine airborne particles measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. These particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular health problems.

Exposure to elevated PM2.5 levels may cause symptoms such as:

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation

• Coughing and respiratory discomfort

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Worsening asthma symptoms

• Exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Increased cardiovascular stress, particularly among people with existing heart disease

People with asthma, COPD, coronary artery disease, allergies, and other underlying health conditions may be more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution.

The Department of Medical Services advises patients with chronic medical conditions to continue taking prescribed medications, keep essential medicines available, and monitor for unusual symptoms.

High-Risk Groups Advised to Limit PM2.5 Exposure

Thai health authorities have identified several groups that should take additional precautions during periods of elevated air pollution.

These include:

1. Young Children: Developing respiratory systems may be more vulnerable to air pollution.

2. Older Adults: Age-related health conditions may increase susceptibility to pollution-related complications.

3. Pregnant Women: Reducing unnecessary exposure is important for maternal health.

4. People with Chronic Diseases: Individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should closely monitor symptoms.

5. Outdoor Workers: People working outside for extended periods may experience greater cumulative exposure.

Health officials recommend reducing outdoor activities when pollution levels are elevated and seeking medical attention if concerning symptoms develop.

How to Protect Yourself from PM2.5 in Southern Thailand

Dr. Piyawat Laohutanon, Director of Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, advised the public to check PM2.5 concentrations and air quality information before leaving home.

Residents and travelers can monitor air pollution through the Air4Thai application or official updates from Thailand's Pollution Control Department.

Recommended precautions include:

• Monitor air quality: Check PM2.5 levels and official air quality warnings regularly.

• Limit outdoor activities: Reduce outdoor exercise and strenuous activities when air quality reaches orange or red warning levels.

• Wear an N95 mask: Use a properly fitted N95 respirator or an equivalent protective mask when outdoor exposure is unavoidable.

• Create cleaner indoor spaces: Close windows and doors during high-pollution periods and use an appropriately sized air purifier where available.

• Reduce indoor pollution: Avoid smoking, burning incense, and other activities that generate airborne particles.

• Monitor health symptoms: Seek medical attention if respiratory or cardiovascular symptoms worsen.

Outdoor Workers Face Increased Exposure Risks

People who work outdoors, including traffic police officers, agricultural workers, street cleaners, and delivery riders, may experience prolonged exposure to polluted air.

The Department of Medical Services recommends that employers assess air quality risks and implement appropriate workplace protections.

These may include adjusting work schedules, reducing time spent outdoors, rotating duties, providing cleaner indoor rest areas, and supplying properly fitted N95 respirators.

Workers experiencing unusual symptoms should stop working and move away from areas with high pollution levels.

Anyone experiencing chest tightness, significant breathing difficulties, or other severe symptoms should seek urgent medical attention.

Air Quality Advice for International Travelers Visiting Thailand

International travelers planning to visit southern Thailand should remain informed about local air quality conditions, particularly during periods affected by regional wildfire smoke.

Visitors with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions may benefit from consulting their healthcare providers before traveling and ensuring they have adequate supplies of prescribed medication.

Travelers should also consider adjusting outdoor sightseeing, exercise, and recreational activities when air pollution levels are elevated.

Air quality conditions can vary by location and change over time. Travelers should rely on current local measurements rather than assuming that all southern provinces are experiencing the same pollution levels.

Thailand Continues to Monitor Transboundary Haze

Thailand's Department of Medical Services continues to emphasize preventive healthcare measures and public awareness to reduce the potential health impacts of PM2.5 exposure.

The department encourages residents, employers, and visitors to follow official government announcements, monitor local air quality, and take additional precautions when pollution levels increase.

Protecting respiratory and cardiovascular health remains a priority, particularly for vulnerable populations and people exposed to polluted air for extended periods.

For additional health information: Occupational and Environmental Medicine Specialist Center, Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, Thailand. Telephone: +66 2 548 1000, extension 5708.

 

Source: Thailand Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health, October 21, 2026.