City health office urges outdoor workers, commuters to guard against haze

The Davao City Health Office (CHO) is advising workers, commuters and other residents who spend long hours outdoors to protect themselves from haze, warning that polluted air can lead to respiratory problems and eye irritation, according to Edge Davao.

In a public health advisory, the CHO recommended wearing a well-fitting N95 mask to cut down on the inhalation of airborne particles. It also advised residents to limit time spent outdoors and to avoid strenuous activity when air quality is poor.

The office said people should rinse their eyes with clean water or sterile saline solution when needed and should not rub them, to avoid worsening irritation. Drinking plenty of water was also recommended to ease throat irritation linked to airborne pollutants.

Workers and commuters were encouraged to take breaks in enclosed or indoor areas with cleaner air and, where possible, to keep away from smoke, dust and vehicle emissions. The CHO said the advisory especially applies to outdoor workers, traffic enforcers, street vendors, delivery riders, drivers and commuters who may be exposed for long periods.

Haze forms when smoke, dust and other particles build up in the atmosphere, reducing visibility and affecting air quality. Exposure can cause coughing, throat irritation and difficulty breathing, and may worsen asthma and other existing respiratory conditions.

Separately, the Department of Health-Davao Region (DOH-Davao Region) advised residents to stay indoors as much as possible and keep doors and windows closed to limit the entry of polluted air. Damp cloths may be used to seal gaps where outside air can come in.

Residents, particularly those with asthma or other respiratory illnesses, were urged to monitor their health and seek medical help if they experience persistent coughing, worsening breathing difficulty or other worrying symptoms after haze exposure.