Cough and flu remedies flying off the shelves as Sibu’s haze refuses to clear

Sibu's haze situation remains unhealthy, with the Air Pollutant Index recording a value of 152 as of 4pm today, unchanged from the previous day. Local pharmacist Juliana Ting reported a surge in demand for cough and flu medication due to the hazy conditions, although there has been no significant increase in demand for eye medication or inhalers.

Ting stated that cough, sore throat, flu, headache and fever are common health issues experienced by individuals during such unhealthy haze conditions. She noted that children, the elderly, and people with respiratory illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of haze. Ting advised asthmatics and those with respiratory diseases to continue taking their prescribed medication, monitor their symptoms closely, and seek immediate medical attention if their condition worsens.

She emphasized the importance of carrying an inhaler if asthmatic, especially when outdoors. Recommended symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, and wheezing. Ting recommended wearing masks like N95 to filter fine particles from haze, while cautioning that ordinary masks offer less protection.

However, she stressed that masks alone are not 100% protective against haze and must be worn properly, covering both the nose and mouth. Ting warned against taking medication without proper advice and emphasized the importance of checking for medication allergies. She advised asthma and lung disease patients to maintain a sufficient supply of their prescribed medication at home but cautioned against purchasing cough medication, antibiotics, steroids, or inhalers as preventive measures without a doctor or pharmacist's assessment.

This advice comes as Sibu continues to experience unhealthy air quality, with the API still at 152 at 4pm today, highlighting the need for residents to minimize exposure to the haze.