PETALING JAYA: Community pharmacists are bracing for increased demand for health advice as worsening haze, particularly in Sarawak, puts vulnerable Malaysians at greater risk of respiratory problems.
The Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS), Sarawak Pharmaceutical Society and Sabah Pharmaceutical Society said pharmacists could help vulnerable patients manage their medicines, review inhaler techniques and recognise when symptoms require further medical attention.
The call comes as Sarawak bears the brunt of the haze, with air quality in several areas reaching unhealthy and, at times, very unhealthy levels. Schools have also been closed in affected areas, while smoke from fires in Kalimantan continues to move across the border.
MPS president Honorary Prof Amrahi Buang said community pharmacists were among the most accessible healthcare professionals and could play an important role in helping Malaysians manage their health during the haze.
“Haze is not new to Malaysia, but we should never become complacent about its impact. What matters now is what we can do to protect the rakyat.
“Community pharmacists are there in our communities every day to provide advice, support self-care, help patients manage their medicines and recognise when further medical attention is needed,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (Aug 26).
Sarawak Pharmaceutical Society president Ngu Soon Hieng said the impact of the haze was already being felt by communities in the state.
“Sarawak is feeling the impact of the haze now. Schools have already been closed in affected areas and many people cannot simply avoid going outdoors or remain in air-conditioned environments throughout the day.
“Our concern is especially for children, older persons and people with respiratory or other chronic conditions. Take precautions early, keep your medicines available and speak to your community pharmacist if you are concerned about your health,” he said.
Sabah Pharmaceutical Society president Hiew Chui Li said Sabah might not be experiencing the same conditions as Sarawak at the moment, but the situation could change with wind and weather patterns.
“Sabah may not be experiencing the same conditions as Sarawak at the moment, but the situation can change with wind and weather patterns. We should be prepared rather than wait for air quality to worsen.
“Check the API regularly, reduce unnecessary exposure and seek advice if you are unsure about your medicines, inhalers or respiratory protection. Your community pharmacist is there to help,” she said.
The three societies advised the public to monitor official Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, reduce unnecessary outdoor exposure and avoid strenuous outdoor activity when air quality worsens.
Those who need protection from fine particles should use an appropriate respirator such as an N95 and ensure it is worn correctly.
Patients with chronic conditions should continue taking their regular medicines as prescribed and ensure they have an adequate supply.
The societies also urged community pharmacies, particularly those in haze-affected areas, to prepare for increased demand for advice and care.
People experiencing difficulty breathing, worsening shortness of breath, chest pain or significant worsening of an existing condition should seek prompt medical attention, they added.
