PEOPLE living in areas recording unhealthy air quality are advised to stay indoors to avoid the smog and heat.

Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said people should wear a mask and hat and use an umbrella to protect themselves from the sun and pollution.

“Close the windows to reduce haze particles entering the house or building,” she said in a statement today.

Zaliha reminded people to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and keep cool. 

She also encouraged people to take frequent showers.

“Avoid wearing thick, tight and dark-coloured clothes,” she said, adding that such apparel would trap heat.

“If possible, use high-efficiency air conditioners and air filters or purifiers at home to filter fine particles and prevent polluted air from entering the home from the outside. 

“Also, turn on internal air-recirculation mode while driving,” she said. 

Zaliha advised people who are feeling unwell to seek medical treatment at once.

Last Saturday, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the peninsula is currently experiencing hot and smoggy weather.

On Sunday, Segamat in Johor, Cheras in Kuala Lumpur and Tanah Merah in Kelantan recorded unhealthy Air Pollution Index readings of 152, 106 and 104, respectively. – April 19, 2023.