Eye Inflammation Cases Surge 220% in Betong from Indonesian Smoke
Eye inflammation cases have surged 220% in Betong, Yala province, as smoke from Indonesian wildfires triggers respiratory and cardiovascular health issues despite current air quality readings showing improvement.
On September 8, Dr. Witchuda Donskulp, director of Betong Hospital in Yala province, deployed medical staff and health personnel to distribute free protective masks to the public and at-risk groups seeking hospital services, while stressing the importance of health precautions against PM2.5 pollution from Indonesian wildfires. Although current PM2.5 levels in Betong stand at 13.3 micrograms per cubic meter—rated as very good air quality—cumulative health impacts have been detected since late August.
According to Senior Professional Nurse Warisa Wammama, the smoke haze has clearly driven a surge in hospital admissions. Conjunctivitis cases have jumped 220%, cardiovascular diseases have risen 63.8%, and respiratory system disorders have increased 28.4%. Patients report eye irritation, dry throat, and persistent cough despite wearing masks.
Betong Hospital is calling on the public—especially children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases—to limit outdoor activities and wear masks whenever leaving home. Daily air quality updates are available through the hospital's social media pages.
