Thailand’s health ministry gears up for severe haze pollution

Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has established an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to address the imminent severe haze pollution anticipated in the forthcoming dry season, triggered by the persistent issue of PM2.5 ultra-fine dust. This was confirmed by Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, the ministry’s permanent secretary, on Tuesday.

The critical areas of concern are the northern provinces of the country, with Bangkok experiencing the issue sporadically, a situation eased by seasonal rainfall, revealed Dr Opas.

“Based on seasonal patterns of haze pollution, the problem will occur later in the year and continue until the middle of March.”

Dr Opas also noted that the predicted dry and hot weather in the country heightens the probability of forest fires. Furthermore, the southern region’s haze pollution, caused by neighbouring countries’ slash-and-burn practices, has seen some relief due to the current seasonal rainfall, reported Bangkok Post.

The EOC’s primary role is to collaborate with other relevant agencies in monitoring the environmental and health impacts of PM2.5. The short-term effects of this pollutant include eye and skin irritation, a stinging nose, phlegm buildup, coughing, sneezing, and asthma attacks.

In contrast, long-term exposure could increase the risk of heart disease, vasculitis, and cancer. Consequently, high-risk groups such as the elderly and young children are urged to stay indoors in rooms equipped with air purifiers.

Dr Opas went on to assure that the ministry is sufficiently prepared to tackle the haze pollution, especially in the northern region. He emphasised the necessity to control the sources of PM2.5, namely exhaust fumes and industrial factories, by shifting towards renewable energy usage.

The Ministry of Public Health has already incorporated solar cells as an alternative energy source and plans to utilise electric vehicles as ambulances across all state-run hospitals and healthcare units under its supervision.

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