Impact of Karhutla, ISPA Cases Increased by 5 Percent in Pontianak

A street vendor elintasi the Digulis monument in Pontianak by wearing a mask due to the worsening air condition caused by Karhutla, Monday (10/8/2026). ANTARA/HO-Sucia Lucinda

PONTIANAK - The Pontianak City Government appeals to residents to wear masks and reduce outdoor activities after the air quality deteriorated and the cases of Acute Respiratory Tract Infection (ISPA) increased by about five percent.

"For the time being, based on reports from the Health Office, there has been an increase of about five percent. Later we will know more about how much this condition affects people with ISPA," said Pontianak Mayor Edi Rusdi Kamtono as reported by ANTARA, Monday, August 10.

He said the increase in ISPA cases was based on the interim report of the Health Office and would still be evaluated to find out the impact of air conditions on public health.

Edi explained that the concentration of air particles in Pontianak had been above 200 micrograms per cubic meter due to the air conditions affected by the haze from forest and land fires (karhutla).

According to him, air quality tends to worsen at night and early morning because the smoke particles are heavier and therefore closer to the surface. This condition increases the risk of exposure to the public.

"So that people and children who are sensitive to air conditions continue to use masks when they go out or leave the house, reduce outdoor activities, and immediately go to a health facility if they experience symptoms of ISPA," he said.

Edi said air quality began to gradually improve at 08.00 WIB and was in the moderate category. However, the public is still asked to be vigilant because the air conditions can deteriorate again at certain times.

The Pontianak City Government also reminded residents to immediately get a medical examination if they experience respiratory disorders, especially after being active outside the house when air quality decreases.

As a precautionary measure, the Pontianak City Government has asked the Health Office, hospitals, and community health centers to prepare oxygen for people who need treatment due to respiratory disorders.

Edi ensured that oxygen was also provided free of charge at health centers and hospitals as part of the government's preparedness to face the adverse impact of air quality.

He invited the public to reduce the risk of exposure to smoke by limiting outdoor activities, using masks when leaving the house, and immediately seeking medical help if they experience respiratory complaints.