Panel set up to manage manpower and medicine

A committee has been set up to coordinate manpower and medical supplies in areas affected by the haze.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said Health Services Department’s Disease Control Division director Dr Ramlee Rahmat would head the committee.
The Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Fire and Rescue Department and other agencies were involved in the committee.
Dr Chua said the Selangor health director would also set up a state-level committee to carry out the necessary coordination and mobilisation efforts.
Some parts of Selangor were declared haze emergency zones yesterday after the Air Pollutant Index rose above 400.
“The committees will monitor the situation and health conditions of people in the affected areas.
“We will have better coordination via the committees and it will be easier for us to mobilise manpower and medicine,” Dr Chua said, adding that the committee would also provide information to the media and public.
He said his ministry and the Education Ministry decided that schools should be closed in areas where the API reached over 300.
“Students are in the high-risk group so we do not want our students to be exposed to the haze,” he told a press conference here yesterday.
In areas where the API reached over 500, Dr Chua said the residents should close all windows and stay at home.
“Switch on your air-conditioner, do not smoke, reduce your outdoor activities and do not exercise during this period.
“People staying in the Klang Valley should wear mask if they have to work outside,” he said.
Source