Spike in asthma, respiratory cases amid haze

The health ministry has recorded a significant surge in asthma and upper respiratory tract infection cases due to the haze affecting several parts of the country, according to Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad. Asthma cases have skyrocketed by 259% to 219, while URTI cases have climbed by 124% to 3,674 over the past two weeks. URTI cases topped the list, with a 1,637-case increase from previous numbers, while asthma cases rose from 61 to 219.

Conjunctivitis cases, however, saw a slight decrease of 7%, from 157 to 146 cases. Additionally, 90 cases of heat-related illnesses, including 71 cases of heat exhaustion, 14 heatstroke cases, and five heat cramps, have been reported in the past two weeks. Eight heatstroke cases involved Malaysia Games (Sukma) participants in Selangor, with only one requiring hospital treatment.

The minister urged the public to remain cautious, limit sun exposure, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms arise. Seven areas reported unhealthy air pollutant index (API) readings as of 8am on Sunday, with Sarawak's areas of Serian, Kuching, Sri Aman, Samarahan, and Sarikei recording the highest API levels. Kedah's health department advised reducing outdoor activities and protecting vulnerable groups during high API levels, while the public was advised to check API readings before planning outdoor activities.