Fires pollute air, Indonesia reports more than 277,000 cases of acute respiratory infection

China News Service, Jakarta, October 15 (Reporter Li Zhiquan) The Indonesian Ministry of Health stated on the 15th that in response to the health impacts caused by forest and land fires, the Indonesian government has deployed 2,106 medical personnel and distributed masks and other medical supplies to affected areas.

Currently, forest and land fires have affected 63 counties and cities in 7 provinces in Indonesia. Data show that as of October 12, Indonesia has reported more than 277,000 acute respiratory infection cases, including 62,400 children aged 0 to 5 years old.

Indonesian Ministry of Health spokesperson Vidyawati said that day that the government is strengthening medical services, referral systems and disease surveillance in affected areas to deal with the health risks posed by the haze. At the same time, approximately 3 million masks, as well as oxygen concentrators, medicines, personal protective equipment and other supplies were distributed to the affected areas to ensure the normal development of local medical services.

According to the Indonesian Ministry of Health, air quality monitoring results show that the pollution situation in some affected areas in Indonesia is not optimistic. Among them, the air quality in 13 areas is at the "dangerous" level, 11 areas are at the "very unhealthy" level, and 13 areas are at the "unhealthy" level.

The Indonesian Ministry of Health stated that it will focus on strengthening the health protection of vulnerable groups such as infants and young children. The ministry previously warned that continued haze may not only cause respiratory diseases but also mental health problems such as stress and anxiety. People should minimize outdoor activities.

Meteorological departments in many places in Indonesia have also recently reminded residents to take precautions. They recommend wearing masks, reducing outdoor activities, and closing doors and windows when the haze worsens.