Haze-related URTI, asthma and conjunctivitis cases drop as Malaysia warns continued precautions

The Health Ministry said that monitoring at 78 designated facilities revealed a notable reduction in haze-related illnesses during week 37 of 2026, with upper respiratory tract infections dropping from 7,065 to 5,639, asthma cases falling from 1,117 to 722, and conjunctivitis cases decreasing from 334 to 227. Despite these improvements, the haze remains in its seventh week and continues to produce unhealthy air-pollutant index readings in ten areas of Sarawak and four locations including Putrajaya, Selangor, Negri Sembilan and Sabah.

Authorities have activated the National Haze Operations Room since September 4 to coordinate response efforts and have stocked health facilities with medicines, oxygen and equipment. The ministry advises postponing strenuous outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable populations, and recommends wearing suitable face masks when exposure is unavoidable. Residents with chronic respiratory or heart conditions should maintain prescribed medication and seek treatment promptly if symptoms worsen.