Thailand: Air quality levels in Chiang Mai reaches unhealthy levels
19th April 2016
Image via @RichardBarrow / TwitterThe Nation, thousands in the city have developed health issues due to the smog.
It was reported that from April 3 to 9, up to 447 patients had inflamed eyes, while 8,747 had heart problems, 4,638 had respiratory disorders, and 539 had skin issues.
Tests conducted by the Chiang Mai University revealed that the amount of small dust particulates measuring less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10) had exceeded the limit considered safe, which is set at 120 micrograms per cubic meter of air.
According to the tests, which collected samples from four locations, the PM10 amount ranged between 131 to 163 micrograms per cubic meter.
As a result, authorities have advised the public to wear facial masks while outdoors and to reduce their exposure to the air outside, particularly for the elderly and young children.
Health warning for Chiang Mai: Children & elderly people should wear a mask & avoid outside activities #Thailand pic.twitter.com/iCT5zop8pYApril 19, 2016
However, the surgical masks commonly seen in use do not protect wearers from fine particulates present in smoke or haze.
Instead, it is recommended that those who wish to protect themselves against the smog should acquire disposable respirators.
The haze is a fairly common occurrence in northern Thailand, as from February to April, the corn fields in the mountainous region are cleared for new crops.
Locals, however, have had enough and are organizing a rally calling on farmers to stop the burning, which is scheduled to take place this Sunday on April 24.
asiancorrespondent.com
19th April 2016
Image via @RichardBarrow / TwitterThe Nation, thousands in the city have developed health issues due to the smog.
It was reported that from April 3 to 9, up to 447 patients had inflamed eyes, while 8,747 had heart problems, 4,638 had respiratory disorders, and 539 had skin issues.
Top view is of Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai taken today. Except you cannot actually see it due to the smog (Pic CCDC FB) pic.twitter.com/pHTUFJkPifApril 19, 2016
Tests conducted by the Chiang Mai University revealed that the amount of small dust particulates measuring less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10) had exceeded the limit considered safe, which is set at 120 micrograms per cubic meter of air.
According to the tests, which collected samples from four locations, the PM10 amount ranged between 131 to 163 micrograms per cubic meter.
As a result, authorities have advised the public to wear facial masks while outdoors and to reduce their exposure to the air outside, particularly for the elderly and young children.
Health warning for Chiang Mai: Children & elderly people should wear a mask & avoid outside activities #Thailand pic.twitter.com/iCT5zop8pYApril 19, 2016
However, the surgical masks commonly seen in use do not protect wearers from fine particulates present in smoke or haze.
Instead, it is recommended that those who wish to protect themselves against the smog should acquire disposable respirators.
The haze is a fairly common occurrence in northern Thailand, as from February to April, the corn fields in the mountainous region are cleared for new crops.
Locals, however, have had enough and are organizing a rally calling on farmers to stop the burning, which is scheduled to take place this Sunday on April 24.
asiancorrespondent.com
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