Pontianak Sees 20% Rise in Pneumonia Cases Amid Worsening Air Quality

Pontianak, Indonesia – Respiratory infections are on the rise in Pontianak, with the Bhayangkara Anton Soedjarwo Hospital reporting a 10-20% increase in pneumonia cases. This surge is directly linked to the deteriorating air quality caused by ongoing forest and land fires in the region.

“

So the hospital is anticipating an increase in cases by preparing health personnel, medical equipment, treatment rooms, and coordination systems with other hospitals.

Hospital officials are taking the situation seriously, with the head of the hospital, Kombes Pol drg. Josep Ginting, stating that measures are being put in place to manage the influx of patients. These preparations include ensuring sufficient healthcare personnel, medical equipment, and hospital beds, alongside coordinated efforts with other medical facilities.

Dr. Andreas, a pulmonologist at the hospital, explained that prolonged exposure to haze can worsen respiratory conditions and potentially lead to pneumonia, an infection causing lung inflammation. He highlighted that vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, are at a higher risk. Initial symptoms like coughing and sneezing are common, but can escalate to shortness of breath if exposure continues and the body cannot cope.

“

Older people are more numerous and more vulnerable to pneumonia, possibly due to this haze.

To mitigate the health risks, the public is advised to limit outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality. When going outside is unavoidable, wearing a mask is strongly recommended, especially for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The hospital also noted a potential increase in Acute Respiratory Tract Infections (ISPA) in areas with high fire activity, such as Ketapang, Kubu Raya, Mempawah, Sintang, and Kapuas Hulu.

“

If the exposure continues and the body cannot tolerate it, the symptoms can develop into shortness of breath.