Doctors Advise Against Turning On Fans During Volcanic Ash Fall

Children are the group most vulnerable to exposure to volcanic ash from the eruption of Anak Krakatau. Ash exposure can trigger various acute respiratory disorders, particularly in children with a history of asthma, allergies, or chronic lung disease.

“In children with a history of allergies, asthma, or chronic lung disease, exposure to volcanic ash can trigger dangerous acute attacks or exacerbations. The most common symptoms are airway irritation causing sneezing, coughing, a runny nose, and even shortness of breath,” said Dr Wahyuni Indawati, Chair of the Respirology Coordinating Working Unit of the Indonesian Paediatricians’ Association (IDAI), in a written statement quoted on Tuesday (8/9/2026).

Not only that, children with certain conditions such as infants with a history of bronchopulmonary dysplasia or children with congenital heart disease are also included in the high-risk group. For this reason, parents are urged not to underestimate any symptoms that appear.

“If a child begins to show signs of respiratory distress such as rapid breathing, inward chest retractions, or oxygen saturation below 94 per cent, take them immediately to the nearest health facility,” said Dr Wahyuni.

She explained that volcanic ash is not ordinary dust. This material is formed from fragments of rock, minerals, and volcanic glass of a very fine size with sharp and abrasive surfaces. When inhaled, these particles can scratch and irritate the respiratory tract.

“Volcanic ash also contains irritant gases such as sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide, which can worsen irritation and trigger inflammation in children’s respiratory systems,” she said.

Given the high level of risk, IDAI, through its Respirology Working Unit, has issued a series of important recommendations for parents to protect children from volcanic ash exposure. The most ideal step is to evacuate children away from affected areas. If that is not possible, the best approach is to keep children indoors with the house tightly sealed to prevent ash from entering.