Despite improvements in air quality in some regions, haze remains a persistent concern across Malaysia, with fluctuating conditions influenced by wind patterns and rainfall. Health experts emphasize that families should remain vigilant and continue monitoring official air quality updates, as clearer skies do not necessarily mean the risk has passed.
Dr. Sapna Shridhar Patil, a senior lecturer at Taylor’s University Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, highlights that children are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of haze due to their developing lungs and immune systems. She noted that children with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, allergies, eczema, chronic respiratory diseases, or heart problems face heightened risks and may experience worsened symptoms even when others seem unaffected.
Air quality readings, commonly conveyed through Malaysia’s Air Pollutant Index (API), offer important guidance but do not fully account for individual differences. According to Dr. Sapna, responses to haze can vary significantly among children based on factors like age, health status, activity level, and environment. She urges caregivers to consider these variables rather than relying solely on index numbers.
Exposure to haze can lead to symptoms such as coughing, nasal congestion, headaches, fatigue, and breathing difficulties. Even mild symptoms can impact a child’s ability to concentrate, participate in school activities, and maintain attendance. Children notoriously inhale more air relative to their body weight compared to adults. When engaged in physical activities like running or sports, they may intake higher amounts of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which penetrates deep into the lungs.
Dr. Sapna advises parents to avoid encouraging children to continue outdoor exertion if they exhibit respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness. Instead, families should regularly consult Malaysia’s official API reports and limit non-essential outdoor activities during poor air quality conditions. For children with respiratory or other health issues, precautionary measures may need to begin at lower pollution levels based on medical advice.
At home, measures to protect children include keeping doors and windows closed when air quality is poor, and using air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor pollution. Families are also encouraged to minimize indoor sources of pollutants like tobacco smoke, incense, or candles, which can exacerbate air quality problems.
When going outside is unavoidable during haze episodes, Dr. Sapna recommends the use of properly fitted face masks to provide effective protection against harmful particles. Schools should consider moving outdoor activities indoors or postponing them when conditions worsen. Identifying students with chronic health conditions and ensuring quick access to prescribed medications and support is also crucial.
Parents are urged to seek medical attention if children’s symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily activities. Those with asthma, chronic lung or heart conditions, or significant allergies require close monitoring. Emergency care should be sought if a child experiences severe breathing difficulties, chest pain, pronounced wheezing, bluish discoloration of lips or face, unusual drowsiness, confusion, or rapidly deteriorating symptoms.
By staying informed about air quality, recognizing individual vulnerabilities, and responding promptly to symptoms, families and schools can work together to safeguard children's health while maintaining educational and daily routines during haze episodes.