Northern Thailand’s Haze Becoming Severe Health Issue

 

.

CHIANG RAI – Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (DDPM) Director General Chatchai Promlert has now said that haze in northern Thailand have reached levels that can be considered harmful to health

The Director General said that he has asked agencies in the northern region to closely monitor the situation and air quality and advised that they be prepared to spray water to reduce the levels of dust particles if necessary and see to it that firefighting equipment will be put on standby.

He also urged northern villagers to not burn garbage and agricultural trash, which would otherwise exacerbate the situation. He added that they should avoid outdoors activities or wear face masks outdoors. He also advised motorists to drive with extra precaution as visibility might be compromised by haze.

The haze is not only a danger to health but can lead to traffic accidents in several upper northern provinces, namely Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Lampoon, Lampang, Payao, Prae, Nan and Mae Hong Son.

Meanwhile, The Department of Disease Control director general Amnuay Kagina said that the groups of people at risk include those with chronic diseases, the elderly, children and pregnant women who are recommended to refrain from going outdoors.

In case that they need to go outside, they are suggested to wear a hygienic mask or cloth mask which has been dampened to cover their mouth and nose.

People are advised to keep their doors and windows closed to prevent dust from getting inside the house or contacting damp cloth curtains. In case of those who have difficulties breathing, they are suggested to immediately see a physician at a clinic or hospital near their home.

For further information, please contact the Ministry of Public Health Hotline Tel. 1422 or for emergency assistance call tel. 1669.

By Supawadee Wangsri