Jakarta, ThedailyID — Indonesia recorded 277,075 cumulative cases of acute respiratory infections across seven provinces affected by forest and land fires as of October 12, 2026, according to the Ministry of Health.
The affected provinces are Jambi, Riau, South Sumatra, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan and East Kalimantan. Children aged five and under accounted for 62,400 cases, or 22.5% of the total.
Aji Muhawarman, head of the ministry’s Bureau of Public Communication and Information, said the central and regional governments had strengthened disease monitoring, healthcare services, medical facility readiness and logistical support, according to Antara News.
As of October 12, authorities had mobilized 2,106 medical and healthcare personnel. They had also distributed more than 2.8 million masks through various central and regional government sources.
However, prolonged haze poses risks beyond physical health. Disruptions to social activities, education and work can contribute to stress and anxiety. Changes in behavior, sleep patterns and eating habits also warrant attention, particularly among children.
Health officials and local authorities are encouraging residents to reduce their exposure to smoke. Parents should keep children indoors when outdoor air quality deteriorates and ensure they stay in spaces with cleaner air.
Local governments are also being urged to prepare designated smoke-free spaces with air filtration suited to local needs. These facilities should provide access to healthcare services, particularly for infants, young children and pregnant women.
Some affected areas have also established oxygen rooms to support residents during the haze emergency.
The figures highlight the public health burden associated with Indonesia’s ongoing forest and land fires. With children accounting for a substantial share of reported respiratory infections, access to clean air and timely medical care remains crucial for vulnerable communities.
