Asthma, bronchitis, acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) and conjunctivitis are among the health problems reported to be increasing amid the haze blanketing parts of the country.
Public health medicine specialist Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said prolonged exposure to haze could inflame the respiratory tract and leave people more vulnerable to illness.
“Recent developments show that asthma cases have increased more than eightfold,” he said.
The Health Ministry (MOH) said in a statement last week that the number of asthma cases had risen to 1,811.
Dr Zainal explained that fine particles in haze could irritate the respiratory system and weaken the lungs’ natural defences, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to cause infections.
“URTI occurs when haze pollutants weaken the lungs’ defences, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to attack.
“Studies have found that air pollution increases the incidence of respiratory tract infections,” he said.
He warned that more serious complications could include severe breathing difficulties and lung infections such as pneumonia, potentially leading to higher hospital admissions.
Children below five and older people are particularly vulnerable, he said, as their immune systems and lung functions are generally weaker.
Dr Zainal also urged people with existing conditions such as asthma, heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to take extra precautions, as haze exposure could worsen their health.
“Pregnant women and smokers should also take precautions as they face higher health risks when exposed to air pollution,” he said.
He added that conjunctivitis could also become more common during haze episodes because airborne particles can directly irritate the eyes.
