Haze FAQ: How to Protect Your Family's Health

Written by Dr Raja Muhammad Sauqi, Resident Doctor, Klinik Al-Ansar Seremban 2

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Key points

• Fine haze particles (PM2.5) can irritate your lungs, heart and eyes

• Check the API daily and stay indoors when it is above 100

• Get help early if you are breathless, wheezy or have chest pain

What is haze?

Smoke from open burning and forest fires that fills the air with fine particles called PM2.5. These are small enough to go deep into the lungs. Malaysia measures air quality with the Air Pollutant Index (API):

• 0–50: Good

• 51–100: Moderate

• 101–200: Unhealthy

• 201–300: Very unhealthy

• 301 and above: Hazardous

Who is most at risk?

• Babies, children and the elderly

• Pregnant women

• People with asthma or COPD

• People with heart disease

What are the symptoms?

• Itchy, red or watery eyes

• Runny nose, sore throat and cough

• Wheezing or a tight chest

• Headache and tiredness

How do I protect myself?

• Stay indoors and close windows and doors

• Use an air purifier if you have one

• Wear a well-fitted N95 mask if you must go out. Surgical masks give limited protection.

• Avoid outdoor exercise and drink plenty of water

• Check the latest API on the APIMS website (apims.doe.gov.my)

Can my children wear masks?

Children under 2 should not wear a mask. For older children, use a mask made in their size that fits snugly, as adult N95 masks often don't seal well on small faces. The best protection is to keep them indoors when the API is high.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have asthma or COPD, keep your inhaler with you and follow your usual plan. Go to a clinic or emergency department immediately if there's:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Chest pain or tightness

• Wheezing that doesn't get better with your inhaler

• Bluish lips, confusion or unusual drowsiness

Where can I get checked?

Klinik Al-Ansar Seremban 2 (06-601 1816) and Senawang (06-678 7801), both open 24 hours.