Haze: MOH monitoring URT, conjunctivitis cases
SIBU: The Health Ministry (MOH) is monitoring the increase in cases of acute respiratory tract infections (URTI) and conjunctivitis in Sarawak following the haze conditions affecting several areas in the state.
The Health Ministry (MOH) in Malaysia is keeping a close eye on a rise in acute respiratory tract infections (URTI) and conjunctivitis cases in Sarawak, as a result of the haze affecting various regions in the state. Deputy Health Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib revealed that health facilities, including clinics and hospitals, are being monitored continuously to promptly address any surge in haze-related cases.
According to the Sarawak State Health Department's monitoring, the average number of URTI cases has jumped from approximately 1,717 per week at the start of the year to 1,752 cases weekly recently. Conjunctivitis cases have also seen an increase from an average of around 17 to 21 cases per week. Meanwhile, overall asthma activity remains unchanged at the state level.
The MOH remains vigilant in observing the current situation, including the pattern of patient arrivals at health facilities, to ensure that healthcare facilities and workers are well-prepared for any potential rise in cases due to the haze. Speaking during a visit to the Jalan Oya Health Clinic in Sarawak, Hanifah emphasized the importance of public awareness, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues, to take necessary precautions when air quality reaches unhealthy levels.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
