KUALA LUMPUR: There has been a sharp spike in respiratory-related cases amid the haze affecting several areas nationwide, with acute upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) cases increasing by 124.4%.
In a statement on Thursday (Aug 27), the Health Ministry said URTI cases rose to 3,674 in epidemiological week (EW) 33 from 1,637 in EW 32.
Asthma cases also increased by 259% to 158 from 61 over the same period, while conjunctivitis cases fell to 146 from 157.
"The Health Ministry continues to intensify daily monitoring of haze-related illnesses through haze sentinel health facilities, comprising 58 health clinics and 18 hospital outpatient departments nationwide, to assess the impact on the health of people in affected areas," it said.
The ministry said it would also step up preparedness and response measures to mitigate the impact of haze on public health, including strengthening surveillance of haze-related illnesses and medical services at health facilities to ensure patients receive appropriate assessment and treatment.
In addition, the ministry will ensure that the needs for healthcare personnel, medicines and medical equipment at hospitals and health clinics are adequately met to ensure continuity of services and treatment for patients.
"The ministry will also ensure that air-conditioning and ventilation systems at health facilities function optimally, while intensifying health education and risk communication activities for the public, particularly high-risk groups," it said.
It advised the public, particularly young children and those with chronic respiratory and heart diseases in areas with unhealthy air quality, to avoid outdoor activities and use appropriate face masks.
It also advised that outdoor events involving strenuous physical activity be postponed, while reminding those with chronic respiratory and heart diseases to adhere to their medication schedules and seek medical attention promptly if they feel unwell.
"MOH will continue to monitor developments in the haze situation and its impact on public health and adjust the level of health preparedness and response based on current risk assessments," it said.
The public can find preventive measures to reduce the health effects of haze on the Health Ministry's Info Sihat website.
