PUTRAJAYA, Oct 15 (Bernama) -- The public is advised to wear N95 face masks if they need to engage in outdoor activities during the haze, due to their ability to filter fine particles sized 2.5 microns (PM2.5) that can enter the respiratory system and harm health.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) said that if N95 face masks are unavailable, the use of three-ply face masks can be considered as a limited additional protection measure.
According to MOH, wearing appropriate face masks is crucial to reduce exposure to air pollutants, especially when the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading exceeds 100, which is at an unhealthy level.
The ministry emphasised that the most effective step to minimise the adverse health effects of haze is to avoid outdoor activities when air quality reaches that level.
"However, if it is necessary to conduct activities outdoors, the public is advised to use appropriate face masks," according to the statement today.
MOH said this advice was issued following the haze situation hitting several areas in the country over the past few weeks, with air pollution levels fluctuating according to location and current conditions.
"MOH urges the public to remain vigilant, reduce exposure to the haze, and prioritise their own and that of their family's health," according to the statement.
The ministry stated that 35 air quality monitoring stations recorded API readings at the Unhealthy level (101 to 200), involving nine states and two Federal Territories based on Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) readings at 2 pm today.
Johor recorded the highest number of affected areas with eight areas, followed by Selangor (six), Perak and Pahang (four each), and Negeri Sembilan and Melaka with three areas each.
Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak each recorded two areas, while Putrajaya, Terengganu, and Sabah each recorded one area. However, MOH informed that no areas recorded API readings at the Very Unhealthy or Hazardous levels.
MOH stated that it will continue to monitor the haze situation and its impact on residents' health, besides ensuring that health facilities, medicine supplies, and medical personnel are always ready to provide the necessary services.
The public can obtain further information on health prevention and protection measures during the haze through the MOH website at https://infosihat.moh.gov.my/isu-semasa/51-jerebu.html.
-- BERNAMA