Doctors are advising residents to wear masks when going outdoors due to recent smog and air pollution in Yangon. Individuals with respiratory conditions are particularly urged to stay indoors to avoid exacerbating their health issues.
According to IQ Air, a global air quality monitoring group, Yangon ranked eighth in the world on 27 January with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 165, classified as an unhealthy red-level alert.
IQ Air also reported that Yangon, Bahan, and Dagon townships were at the red level, while Kamaryut Township was at the orange level.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) categorizes air quality as follows: 0 to 50 (good, green), 51 to 100 (moderate, pink), 101 to 150 (unhealthy for vulnerable people, orange), 151 to 200 (unhealthy, red), 201 to 300 (very unhealthy, purple), and 301+ (hazardous). Cities in Pakistan, India, China, Bangladesh, and Uganda are reported to have worse air pollution than Myanmar, according to IQ Air.
Air pollution is also a significant concern in neighbouring Thailand. On 24 January, Bangkok’s air pollution ranked seventh globally. In response, the Thai government closed 352 schools across 31 provinces and provided free public transport to reduce pollution levels. As a result, Bangkok’s AQI improved to 46, according to IQ Air.
A female CDM doctor emphasized the need for extra precautions for individuals with lung diseases, chronic asthma, chronic bronchitis, as well as stroke and heart disease patients.
“The elderly and children are more vulnerable than middle-aged adults. It’s better to stay at home if possible. If going outside is unavoidable, wearing a mask is necessary,” the doctor said. She also recommended using public transport more frequently to help reduce pollution caused by private cars and taxis.
A woman from South Okkalapa Township expressed concern about the low public awareness of air pollution in Yangon, with many mistaking the smog for regular winter fog.
“In the early mornings, we see fog we’ve never seen before. Some think it’s just winter fog, as they’re unaware of the air pollution. Many don’t wear masks and continue their daily activities as usual. But they’re experiencing symptoms like runny noses and persistent coughing,” she said.
Both the National Unity Government (NUG) and the junta have issued warnings urging people to wear masks, as Yangon’s air pollution remains at a red-level alert.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 99% of the global population breathes poor-quality air, with air pollution contributing to 7 million premature deaths annually.