Haze poses critical child health risks, Indonesian doctors warn

The Indonesian Doctors Association (IDI) in Pontianak is drawing attention to the severe health impacts of the recurring haze in West Kalimantan, particularly focusing on the risks to children's respiratory health. Dr. Rista Lestari, head of IDI Pontianak, stated that the pollution poses a significant danger to developing lungs.

"Especially the risk of pollutant exposure to lungs that are still developing. Haze is a child health problem, and every time a child inhales polluted air, there is a dangerous pollutant exposure that is ongoing," Lestari explained in Pontianak on Sunday. She stressed that the haze should not be viewed solely as an environmental problem or a consequence of forest and land fires.

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Especially the risk of pollutant exposure to lungs that are still developing. Haze is a child health problem, and every time a child inhales polluted air, there is a dangerous pollutant exposure that is ongoing.

Protecting children must be a central part of the response to worsening air quality. Measures such as limiting outdoor activities, moving indoor sports, closing windows, and providing extra protection for children with asthma are crucial for reducing pollutant exposure. "The public cannot ask children to stop breathing. But we can choose not to let them inhale polluted air without proper protection," Lestari added.

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The public cannot ask children to stop breathing. But we can choose not to let them inhale polluted air without proper protection.

Parents are advised to be vigilant for more than just coughing. Other symptoms to watch for include changes in breathing patterns, decreased activity levels, appetite loss, and behavioral changes. Infants and toddlers may not be able to articulate breathing difficulties, often becoming fussy instead. Older children might complain of fatigue without realizing their respiratory system is under strain.

Lestari urged parents to adjust their children's activities based on air quality and called on the government and stakeholders to enact stronger policies to safeguard children's health during haze periods. She emphasized that even after the air quality improves post-rain, the focus on protecting children's lungs, which are vital for their entire lives, must continue.

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We are protecting the lungs they will use throughout their lives.