Cover Photo: Getty
Photo: Getty
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Haze, heat, and repeat: here's what to do to stay healthy and hydrated, especially when air pollution hits your city
As Malaysians brace themselves for a humid season of rain and haze pollution, the Malaysian Ministry of Health has urged everyone to take precautions to safeguard their health in light of the poor air quality that has affected many parts of the country, with the highest haze levels so far recorded in parts of Johor, Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak, as of October 2023.
According to MyHealth, the official online portal of the Ministry of Health, areas with an air pollution index (API) of 101-200 are considered ‘Unhealthy’ while an API of 201-300 is ‘Very unhealthy’. An API above 300 is considered dangerous. From masking up when outdoors to drinking up to eight glasses of water a day, here are simple do’s and don’ts that we can all practice at this time to stay safe and healthy along with our loved ones.
Above Source: Myhealth.gov.my
Source: Myhealth.gov.my
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Suppose your area of residence or work records an API between 101 and 200. In that case, the Health Ministry recommends wearing a mask (doctors recommend an N95 mask for prolonged outdoor exposure) and reducing the time spent outdoors. Activities that can increase air pollution indoors, such as smoking or vaping, should also be avoided. High-risk individuals such as senior citizens, those with asthma or other respiratory diseases, smokers or, children and babies are advised to stay indoors as much as possible when the air quality decreases.
Above Photo: Unsplash
Photo: Unsplash
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For many of us, going out is unavoidable. The Health Ministry thus advises washing one’s hands and face when returning indoors. Staying hydrated is essential, so drink at least eight glasses of water (about 2 litres) daily.
When indoors, opt for a Hepa (High Efficiency Particulate Air) air purifier to keep your indoor area as clean as possible and keep windows and doors closed. While researchers generally agree that having indoor plants at home doesn't significantly improve the air quality, it doesn't hurt to surround yourself with plenty of greenery to create a calm and serene setting indoors.
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Above A general view of the Kuala Lumpur city skyline shrouded in haze on April 24, 2023 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in April 2023 (Photo: Annice Lyn/Getty)
A general view of the Kuala Lumpur city skyline shrouded in haze on April 24, 2023 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in April 2023 (Photo: Annice Lyn/Getty)
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If you experience symptoms like an itchy throat, cough, sore eyes, itchy skin, difficulty breathing, or frequent sneezing or chest pain, seek medical attention immediately. Jet-setters who are down in the dumps about the poor air quality can also use this time to grab their suitcases and enjoy a weekend of (literal) fresh air in destinations like the Maldives, Kyoto or other cities with generally cleaner air. In Malaysia, popular staycation destinations like Janda Baik or Cameron Highlands in Pahang offer a cool and clean respite from the crowded and hazy city scene.
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Previously contributing to Esquire Malaysia, Expat Lifestyle and Newsweek, Tania oversees digital stories across Tatler’s key content pillars, also leading the Front & Female platform exploring issues and topics affecting women today.
