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Brace for haze, forest fires in Indonesia

KUALA LUMPUR: The public has been advised to reduce physical activities and stay indoors following reports of “unhealthy” Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in several areas in the country.

These are some of the precautionary measures listed down by the Health Ministry for those affected by the ensuing haze, as reported by the Malaysia Meteorological Department (Met Malaysia).

Its director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah in a statement said public should be aware of the air quality readings in their areas and adopt measures advised by the ministry.

He said Met Malaysia reported that several states in the country were expected to experience haze for a week starting today due to the forest fires in five districts in Indonesia.

“As of 3pm today, the Air Pollutant Index (API) for the country is at a moderate level while two areas recorded unhealthy readings in Johan Setia, Selangor and Rompin, Pahang, where burning was spotted in these two areas.

“The public are advised to be aware of the changes in the air quality reading of their areas. As safety measures, the ministry advises those who are in the areas with unhealthy air quality readings to follow preventive steps to ensure the haze condition will not affect their health,” he said.

Apart from reducing physical activities and wearing face masks outdoors, the public are also urged to close their windows to minimise the effects of haze, turn on air condition while driving, stay hydrated, shower frequently, avoid wearing thick, tight-fitting or dark coloured clothes and seek help immediately if they don’t feel well.

For more information, visit www.infosihat.gov.my/index.php/isu-semasa/51-jerebu, www.moh.gov.my/index.php/pages/view/183 and www.myhealth.gov.my/cuaca-panas-a-kesihatan/.

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