South Sumatra authorities distribute masks to combat forest fire haze

Authorities in South Sumatra are distributing masks and providing health services to mitigate the impact of acute respiratory infections (ISPA) caused by forest and land fires (karhutla).

The Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) Health Office has distributed over 32,200 masks to health facilities, public service centers, and areas at risk of haze. This includes supplies sent to various community health centers (Puskesmas) and the PSC 119 service.

Simultaneously, the South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) has launched a widespread distribution of masks to students and the general public across several regencies, including Palembang, OKI, Ogan Ilir, and Musi Banyuasin. In Musi Rawas, police personnel are conducting free health checks and distributing masks specifically targeting vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.

These initiatives aim to provide preventive protection against smoke exposure and educate the community on maintaining health during periods of poor air quality.