Amazon Fires Heighten Respiratory Risks for Brazilian Children

During the dry season, extensive forest fires in the Brazilian Amazon release fine particles and toxic gases that aggravate respiratory conditions in children. Pediatrician Laiane Teixeira warns that the smoke and low humidity increase cases of asthma, bronchiolitis, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis, causing cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and heightened airway inflammation. She recommends maintaining prescribed treatments, limiting outdoor activities on high‑pollution days, and ensuring up‑to‑date vaccinations—including influenza, COVID‑19, pneumococcal and the standard childhood series—to reduce the risk of severe infections and hospitalisations.