Keep children indoors before the air turns unhealthy, say doctors

Smoke pollution from forest fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan has caused deteriorating air quality across Malaysia, according to paediatricians. While an air pollutant index (API) reading of 101 or higher indicates unhealthy air, doctors advise that schools and parents should not solely rely on this index to decide when to limit children's outdoor activities during haze.

Dr G Naveen Nair stated that children should be barred from outdoor activities if API readings are close to unhealthy levels, even if they are below 101. He emphasized that an API reading of 95 is not significantly different from 101 in terms of safety for children. The paediatric specialist noted that the API threshold is a guide, not a strict rule, and that schools should consider whether readings are increasing and how much time children spend outdoors.

Children are more vulnerable to haze due to their smaller airways and higher air intake relative to their body size, particularly when running or exercising. Malaysia's API band of 51 to 100 is categorized as moderate air quality, while a reading of 201 or higher is classified as very unhealthy. Children with asthma, allergies, or heart problems are especially at risk and should limit outdoor activities even if the API has not reached 100.