Indonesia's Forest Fires Trigger 174,000 Respiratory Cases

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has recorded 174,694 cases of acute respiratory infections (ARI) in areas affected by forest and land fires. ARI refers to infections that affect the lungs and airways, including pneumonia and bronchitis. The condition can range from mild to severe. The fires, often started to clear land for farming, produce thick smoke that blankets nearby communities. This smoke contains tiny particles that can enter the lungs and cause breathing problems. Health officials continue to monitor the situation as fire season persists.