More health cases in Johor since haze started, says exco member

Johor Baru is experiencing an increase in cases of conjunctivitis, upper respiratory tract illness (URTI), and asthma due to the haze covering the country since late last month, according to Johor’s state health and unity committee chairman, Ling Tian Soon. In the past week, the districts of Johor Baru and Batu Pahat have consistently recorded Air Pollutant Index (API) readings of more than 101, leading to higher incidence of health complications. In epidemiology week (ME) 40, there were 45 reported cases of conjunctivitis, compared to 26 cases in the previous week (ME39) when there was no haze. Additionally, there were 82 reported cases of asthma in ME40, compared to 52 cases the previous week. URTI cases also rose from 1,174 to 1,528 during the same period.

Children, especially those with asthma, are among those affected. However, most of the patients sought outpatient treatment and did not require hospitalization. As of 3pm on Tuesday, Larkin in Johor Baru recorded an API reading of 152, while Batu Pahat showed a reading of 159. An API reading between 101 and 200 is considered unhealthy, and between 201 and 300 is considered very unhealthy. An API of more than 300 indicates hazardous air quality. The Environment Department has predicted that the air quality in Johor Baru and Batu Pahat will worsen, but Ling hopes that the state’s health situation will not deteriorate further.

In light of the situation, Ling advised the public, especially those with respiratory issues, to avoid outdoor activities. He recommended wearing a facemask when going outside and drinking plenty of water to prevent symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and headaches.