Doc: Wear masks on outings and drink more water

The people have been advised to minimise their activities outdoors and take in adequate fluids.
Respiratory physician Dr Wong Wing Keen said: “If they must go out, they should wear a mask. A good one – a surgical mask – would be fine.”
He also said that adequate fluid intake was necessary to ensure that the “lining of the nose and respiratory airways were well hydrated to make them less susceptible to irritation.”
According to Dr Wong, the major effects of the haze would be to the eyes, nose, respiratory tract and the exposed areas of the body.
“For the eyes, the haze can cause irritation, conjunctivitis and also secondary bacterial infection through rubbing. Those who wear contact lenses should ensure optimum hygiene of their lenses.
“A blocked noseis quite a common problem but it can cause worsening symptoms for people with pre-existing rhinitis and sinusitis,” he said.
He said sore throats and coughs could result from the haze but it could cause even more problems for patients with a history of asthma.
“There is also a higher risk for people with heart failure, due to lung infection. I would advise smokers to please stop smoking for the time being.
“As for patients with heart and lung diseases, they should seek medical help immediately should they face any problems,” he added.
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