The annual haze season has descended upon Singapore, reaching for the first time since 2019, the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) levels between 101-200. Certain vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, elderly people with chronic heart and lung conditions, and individuals recovering from COVID-19 must brace themselves for the potential harm from the haze. As it turns out, Singapore’s comparatively clean, well-ventilated environment does not exempt the citizens from health risks during the haze period. Armed with expert advice and precautionary measures, however, residents can navigate through this hazy phase as safely as possible.
- Haze season has arrived in Singapore, with PSI levels reaching a first high since 2019.
- Children, pregnant women, elderly people with chronic conditions, and COVID-19 recoverees are particularly vulnerable during the haze period.
- Precautionary measures like checking the PSI regularly, using N95 masks, and sticking to indoor activities can mitigate potential health risks.
The Straits Times recently reported about the returning haze season and its implications for Singapore’s residents.
Understanding Vulnerabilities
According to Dr Lim Hui Fang, “Children have smaller airways and faster respiratory rates, which mean they breathe in more haze particles for their body size”. This makes them considerably more susceptible to the harmful effects of haze.
Elderly people with reduced capacities to clear pollutants from their bodies are also at heightened risk. The same goes for recently recovered Covid-19 patients and individuals grappling with conditions such as bronchitis and sinusitis.
Moreover, people with chronic allergies and respiratory problems like asthma are encouraged to be especially careful during this season.
Haze Symptoms and Risks
Dr Leong Choon Kit warns, “People affected by the haze are more at risk of developing symptoms such as conjunctivitis, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, and a feeling of tiredness and weakness”.
Given the potentially serious impact of these symptoms, individuals feeling unwell during the haze season are urged to seek immediate medical attention.
Taking Adequate Precautions
Several precautionary steps can be taken to protect oneself during the haze season. Regularly checking the PSI and understanding what the levels mean is a crucial starting point.
The 24-hour PSI forecast can help in planning activities for the next day while the one-hour PM2.5 concentration reading is useful for determining immediate activities.
Protective Gear and Hydration
N95 masks are recommended for filtering out fine haze particles, particularly for prolonged outdoor exposure. As Dr Lim Hui Fang advises, “Those who are healthy and will be outdoors for a few hours should wear an N95 mask if the PSI is 300 and above”.
It is crucial to ensure that the masks are properly sized and sealed, with the nose and mouth entirely covered.
Staying hydrated by drinking adequate water can also alleviate symptoms like dry throat and itchiness.
Reducing Indoor Exposure
Indoors too, measures can be taken to reduce exposure to the haze. Closing doors and windows, using fans or air-conditioners, and considering air purifiers are all effective ways to beat indoor haze.
If you are considering cleaning your premises, consider mopping or wiping surfaces instead of vacuuming, which could stir up settled dust.
Physical Activities and Precautions
The haze period requires adjustments in physical activity. When the 24-hour PSI reaches unhealthy levels (101 or above), individuals with chronic heart and lung conditions are advised to avoid strenuous outdoor exertion.
Even healthy individuals are advised to reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical activities, more so for the elderly, pregnant women, and children.
Delving into the haze season, remember that information and preparation are your best defences. Be mindful of your vulnerabilities and risks, keep an eye on the PSI, deck up with your N95 masks, hydrate adequately, and exercise with care. As haze season becomes a recurrent phenomenon, adapting and ensuring our health remains of utmost importance.
`
In your personal experience, how has the haze affected your daily activities? Do share your thoughts and tips to navigate this season safely. After all, our shared wisdom could make this transition smoother for everyone. Stay safe!
