DOH, LGUs urge public to wear masks, limit outdoor activities as Indonesia wildfire haze reaches PH

Health authorities and local government units have issued advisories after smoke from massive wildfires in Indonesia reached the country.

Wildfires started ravaging forests in the country's West Kalimantan province last week. The Associated Press reported that the fires still remain active on Monday, Aug. 31, despite ongoing suppression efforts.

The fires have since sent thick smoke and haze across parts of Southeast Asia, reaching neighboring countries such as the Philippines.

According to readings by IQAir as of Sept. 1, Las Piñas has the most unhealthy air quality among the monitored areas in Metro Manila, followed by Makati, Marikina, Parañaque, Quiapo, and San Mateo. Other cities include Mandaluyong, Muntinlupa, Ungca, and Caloocan.

The Department of Health said that the monsoon winds have caused the haze to reach parts of Luzon and Visayas and warned that this can have a harmful impact on one's health.

"Maaaring magdulot ang haze ng hirap sa paghinga, pag-ubo, pananakit ng dibdib, pangangati o pagluluha ng mga mata, at paglala ng mga sakit sa baga tulad ng hika. Dobleng pag-iingat ang kailangan para sa mga bata, matatanda, at mga may dati nang sakit sa baga o puso," the health agency said.

To minimize the health risks associated with haze exposure, the DOH urged the public to take several precautions.

These include staying indoors as much as possible, keeping doors closed, and covering gaps and openings with wet cloth to prevent smoke from entering the home.

Those who need to go outside are advised to wear an N95 mask. If you don't have one, an alternative would be to fold a handkerchief or piece of cloth, dampen it with a small amount of water, and use it to cover your nose and mouth. Another way would be to use the double-mask method by wearing two standard masks for added protection.

Motorists traveling at night or in areas with poor visibility should also use their headlights or fog lights.

The Department added that individuals who require emergency assistance should immediately contact the National Emergency Hotline 911.

The Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources similarly advised the public to minimize prolonged outdoor activities, particularly in areas visibly affected by haze.

"Persons who are sensitive to air pollution, including children, older persons, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, are advised to limit outdoor exposure and take necessary precautions," it said. "Wear a well-fitting mask, preferably an N95 or equivalent, when going outdoors in areas with noticeable haze."

Several LGUs have also urged residents to stay vigilant and take precautions amid the haze.

During his Talk to the People address on Tuesday morning, Sept. 1, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno urged all residents, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions, senior citizens, pregnant women, and students, to wear face masks whenever they go outside.

“It is very important that we use masks, and as much as possible, double them because the air we will be breathing in the coming hours is not good,” he said. "If you have pre-existing conditions and you don't have anything important to do outside, stay indoors. As much as possible, let's keep our windows closed because our respiratory system may be affected."

He assured that the Manila Health Department and its hospitals are on alert for patients who may be affected by this poor air quality.

The Quezon City Epidemiology and Surveillance Division has also shared some tips on how to stay safe from the effects of the haze. These include drinking plenty of water to avoid irritation in the throat, following government advisories, maintaining personal hygiene such as frequent washing of hands, and refraining from sharing fake news.

Other LGUs that have issued advisories include Muntinlupa, Palawan, Cebu City, Laguna, and Santa Rosa City.