Indonesia respiratory cases exceed 170,000 due to wildfire haze
A health ministry official reported more than 170,000 respiratory cases in Indonesia on Tuesday as the nation battles fires causing toxic smog.
Affected regions and air quality
Blazes in Borneo, Sumatra, and Papua have blanketed parts of the archipelago and neighboring Malaysia and Singapore. Air quality indexes are plummeting as fine particulate matter smaller than a human hair carries health risks.
Case counts and vulnerable groups
There were 174,694 cases of acute respiratory infections between August and September 21 in areas affected by forest and land fires. More than 40,000 of the recorded respiratory cases were among toddlers.
Government response and advice
The Health Ministry mobilized aid including oxygen concentrators, face masks, and oxygen canisters to the affected regions. Officials advise the public to reduce outdoor activities when air quality worsens and maintain hydration.
2 outlets, different leads
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Phys.org
Respiratory problems climb past 170,000 cases in haze-hit Indonesia
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South China Morning Post
Indonesia breathing issues spike to over 170,000 cases amid wildfire haze
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.