Smoke from Forest Fires Causes Health Problems for 11,707 Residents in Pekanbaru

Pekanbaru: Pekanbaru, Riau, has recorded 11,707 residents reporting health problems linked to haze from forest and land fires, with most suffering from acute respiratory infections (ARI), asthma, and skin and eye irritation.

“As of today, the cumulative number of cases has reached 11,707,” said Pekanbaru Health Agency Head Hazli Fendriyanto on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Hazli explained that the figure represents cumulative data collected since August 25, 2026, when Pekanbaru declared a state of emergency for land fires. The data was compiled from 21 community health centers and 30 hospitals across the city.

Of the cumulative total, 9,816 cases involved acute respiratory infections (ARI), followed by 892 asthma cases, 498 cases of skin irritation, and 328 cases of conjunctivitis, or eye irritation.

To prevent wider health impacts, the Pekanbaru City Government, through its Health Agency, continues to strengthen prevention efforts and medical services. One measure is to step up public health campaigns through the city’s 21 community health centers. Health workers are actively urging residents to limit outdoor activities while air quality remains poor.

“If you must go outdoors, make sure to keep wearing a mask,” Hazli stressed.

Residents have also been urged to keep doors, windows, and home ventilation openings tightly closed to limit exposure to air pollution, particularly for vulnerable family members. The Pekanbaru Health Agency is also distributing masks for free. Hazli assured residents that mask supplies remain more than sufficient and that they can obtain them free of charge at their nearest community health center.

The Pekanbaru City Government has also called on companies and corporations to contribute masks through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs. The local government can hand over the donations or distribute them directly to residents.

Meanwhile, healthcare facilities remain on full alert. All community health centers have been equipped with medicines, oxygen cylinders, and medical equipment to treat acute respiratory infections (ARI). Their operating hours have also been extended until 9 p.m. daily, with services remaining available on Saturdays and Sundays.

“With these preparations in place, residents experiencing health problems amid the haze can promptly receive medical examinations and treatment,” he concluded.

(Razaqa Hariz)