Jakarta, IO – Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has urged the vulnerable groups such as infants, young children, older adults, and pregnant women, to limit outdoor activities while haze persists to reduce exposure to smoke.
The Health Ministry continues to protect public health in haze-affected areas. Although it cannot stop the source of the smoke, the ministry is ensuring preventive measures and medical treatment are available, including supplies of medication at community health centers (puskesmas) in affected areas.
“My advice, especially for vulnerable groups, is to stay indoors. If going outside is unavoidable, ask family members to handle daily errands whenever possible,” Budi told reporters at the Home Affairs Ministry on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
Budi explained that smoke exposure can affect the respiratory tract, eyes, and skin. Those who must go outside are advised to wear masks, preferably N95 masks if available. Wearing glasses can help protect the eyes, while long-sleeved clothing can reduce skin exposure to airborne particles.
People should also clean themselves after returning home. Budi urged the public not to ignore symptoms associated with haze exposure, including coughing, eye irritation, and persistent skin irritation or itching.
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“Do not wait until you cough up blood. If you start coughing, experience eye irritation, or develop persistent itching and skin irritation, seek medical attention at the nearest community health center immediately,” he stressed.
He added that community health centers in affected areas had been supplied with medication to treat health problems caused by smoke exposure. Residents are encouraged to follow preventive advice and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms develop.
Budi emphasized that limiting outdoor activities, using protective equipment when going outside is unavoidable, and seeking medical care as soon as symptoms appear are essential steps to protect public health while the haze persists. (est)
