Health Emergency – 15 Provinces Hit Hard by PM 2.5 Pollution

Two months of pollution-related illness have affected 1.32 million people, with 15 provinces reporting PM 2.5 levels exceeding 51 µg/m³. Most cases are in the northern region, including Bangkok’s 50 districts. The Ministry of Public Health reported 1.32 million pollution-related illnesses since the beginning of the year, with an additional 196,000 cases this week alone.

Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, the Ministry of Public Health’s permanent secretary, stated that 15 provinces had PM 2.5 levels exceeding 51 µg/m³ for more than three consecutive days. The affected provinces are Nan, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phrae, Phayao, Lamphun, Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Tak, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Nonthaburi, and all 50 districts of Bangkok. Emergency medical and public health operation centers have been opened in these provinces, with six more provinces expected to follow suit.

Dr. Opas added that while PM 2.5 levels are expected to decrease gradually as the hot season approaches, vigilance is still required for another 1-2 weeks. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, those with lung and heart conditions, and young children, should avoid outdoor activities during periods of high pollution.

It has been ordered to continuously monitor and care for patients with pollution-related illnesses. Between January 1 and March 5, 2023, 1,325,838 cases of pollution-related illnesses were reported, with 196,311 new cases this week, up from 161,839 the previous week. The most affected group is respiratory diseases, with 583,238 cases, an increase of 85,910 from the previous week. Skin inflammation cases increased by 35,878 to 267,161, conjunctivitis cases increased by 36,537 to 242,805, and heart, blood vessel, and brain diseases increased by 33,413 to 208,880. The conclusion discusses how HHO carbon cleaning is the most eco-friendly solution, with no harmful chemicals, and urges collective action to address the issue.

Source article by THAI PBS NEWS