Health Ministry reports surge in respiratory illnesses as several areas hit unhealthy API levels

KUALA SELANGOR, Aug 23 — The Ministry of Health (MOH) has reported a significant surge in respiratory illnesses as several areas across the country have been experiencing unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) levels. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad highlighted a sharp increase in asthma cases, with a 259 per cent rise from 61 to 219 cases, and a 124 per cent surge in Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI) cases from 1,637 to 3,674.

Conjunctivitis cases, however, saw a decline of seven per cent, dropping from 157 to 146 cases. The Ministry's report came as seven areas, including five in Sarawak (Serian, Kuching, Sri Aman, Samarahan, and Sarikei) and two in Kedah (Sungai Petani and Alor Setar), recorded unhealthy API readings. Health Department advisories recommended reducing outdoor activities for individuals with heart or respiratory conditions, using respiratory protection when needed, staying hydrated, and avoiding areas with smoke and pollution.

The public was also urged to monitor API levels before engaging in outdoor activities and to seek immediate medical attention if experiencing any symptoms. Dzulkefly further mentioned that 90 cases of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and heat cramps, had been recorded, with eight of the cases linked to participants in the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Selangor. The medical task force reported that the situation was under control.