Forest Fire Fallout: Acute Respiratory Infection Cases in North Kayong, West Kalimantan, Reach 934

The Health and Family Planning Office of North Kayong Regency, West Kalimantan, has reported a surge in Acute Respiratory Infection (ISPA) cases, reaching 934 by early August 2026. The increase is attributed to worsening air quality resulting from forest and land fires (karhutla) in the region.

Head of the North Kayong Health Office, Maria Fransisca, urged residents to take precautions. ‘In response to the poor air quality caused by the forest fires, the public is advised to reduce outdoor activities,’ she stated in Sukadana on Monday (10/8).

Official data recorded the 934 ISPA cases between the 22nd and 30th epidemiological weeks of 2026, spanning from 31 May to 1 August. The figures show significant fluctuations over the two-month period, with the highest number of cases reported in the 23rd week. The Teluk Batang Community Health Centre recorded the highest cumulative number of cases at 363, followed by the Sukadana Health Centre with 309 cases and the Siduk Health Centre with 159 cases. No ISPA cases were reported at the Matan and Pelapis Health Centres during this period.

Maria further advised residents who must be outdoors to always wear masks to minimise exposure to the haze. She also reminded the public to maintain their immune systems by drinking sufficient water. ‘Immediately visit a healthcare facility if you experience respiratory problems such as coughing, pain when swallowing, or shortness of breath,’ she stressed. The local government continues to monitor air quality developments and the readiness of health facilities to handle a potential surge in patients due to this environmental impact.