ILOILO — The Iloilo Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office has issued a health advisory as transboundary haze from Indonesian wildfires affects several towns. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions as varying air quality levels pose potential health risks and reduce visibility.
Affected Areas and Air Quality
The advisory specifically identifies Alimodian, Miag-ao, Igbaras, and Tubungan as towns experiencing haze. Poor air quality in these areas could trigger health problems, especially for vulnerable populations. Air monitoring by the Environmental Management Bureau-Western Visayas showed generally good to fair conditions in Oton, San Miguel, and Pavia stations.
However, the Garden of Love station in Barangay Nabitasan, La Paz, recorded PM2.5 levels that reached "unhealthy for sensitive groups" at times. This reading indicates a higher risk for individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma. As of Wednesday morning, air quality at this station improved to good-to-fair levels.
Who Is Most at Risk
The haze carries fine particulate matter that can irritate the lungs and airways. Children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions face the highest health risks. Common symptoms from exposure include coughing, throat irritation, watery eyes, and chest tightness.
Individuals with asthma may experience worsening symptoms and should limit strenuous outdoor activities. The advisory emphasizes that severe symptoms require immediate medical attention. These include prolonged coughing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, and confusion.
Practical Steps to Stay Safe
Authorities recommend that vulnerable residents stay indoors as much as possible. Wearing a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask is advised for anyone who must go outside. These masks are effective at filtering out microscopic particles present in the haze.
Keeping doors and windows shut can help protect indoor air quality. Using damp cloths to seal gaps and running HEPA air purifiers, if available, can further reduce exposure. Drivers should use headlights or fog lights due to reduced visibility on roadways.
A Collective Effort for Safety
The Iloilo City Operations Center is closely monitoring the haze and the prevailing southwest
monsoon. Authorities are tracking possible changes in air quality and will provide updates as needed. Residents are urged to stay informed through official advisories.
The overall air quality during the recent monitoring period remained generally acceptable.
Pollutant concentrations largely stayed within good-to-fair levels. However, the fluctuating readings highlight the importance of taking precautions, especially during the afternoon when lighter winds can trap pollutants closer to the ground.
Looking Ahead
The haze is a temporary situation, but its health impacts can be managed with proper precautions. Staying informed and following recommended guidelines will help protect the health of Iloilo's residents. The community is encouraged to look out for vulnerable neighbors and family members during this period.
