Palembang Health Office Urges Mask Use Amid Unhealthy Haze

The Palembang City Health Office has issued a public health advisory, urging all residents to wear masks when outdoors. This directive comes in response to the deteriorating air quality in the region, which has reached unhealthy levels due to widespread haze from land and peat fires.

Fenty Aprina, the Head of the Palembang Health Office, emphasized the need for vigilance, particularly as the haze is a direct consequence of ongoing dry season fires across South Sumatra. She explained that smoke from burning peatlands can lead to serious health issues, including Acute Respiratory Infection (ISPA) and other related ailments.

The health office is actively working to protect the city's population, especially when haze levels consistently exceed safe thresholds. Beyond mask usage, residents are also encouraged to practice good hygiene and healthy living habits (PHBS), which include frequent handwashing and adequate hydration, particularly for children.

Data from January to July 2026 reveals that the Palembang Health Office has managed 94,964 ISPA cases among the local population. Despite the high number of infections affecting all age groups, from children to the elderly, Aprina confirmed that no deaths have been attributed to the condition during this period.