Respiratory illness alert

Outpatient and emergency sections in all hospitals have been put on alert for a possible influx of patients seeking treatment for asthma and respiratory illnesses.
Director-General of Health Datuk Dr Ismail Merican said the ministry was also monitoring the number of people seeking treatment to increase medical staff, if necessary.
"We are well prepared to handle the possible influx of cases. Medical teams have also been told to be on the lookout for other possible conditions that may come about because of the haze."
He urged private hospitals to be prepared for a possible increase in such patients.
Dr Ismail advised Malaysians to restrict movements outdoors.
"If they do, they are advised to wear masks, especially if they are prone to respiratory illnesses such as bronchial asthma, allergies and chronic lung diseases," he said.
He said haze can adversely affect health as the various particulates can impair the function of the respiratory tract.
Pollutants in the air include nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, ozone and lead. Even small amounts of carbon monoxide can irritate the throat and nose.
Source