MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has advised the public to wear N95 masks and limit outdoor activities as haze from forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, reaches parts of Luzon and the Visayas.

In an advisory issued Tuesday, September 1, the DOH warned that haze contains fine smoke, dust and ash that may cause breathing problems, coughing, chest pain, eye irritation and worsening of respiratory conditions such as asthma.

The agency said children, senior citizens and people with pre-existing heart or lung conditions should take extra precautions because they are more vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality.

To reduce exposure, the DOH advised residents in affected areas to stay indoors as much as possible, keep indoor spaces sealed, and avoid unnecessary prolonged outdoor activities.

Those who need to go outside are advised to wear N95 masks. If these are unavailable, the DOH said a damp handkerchief or cloth, double-masking, or folding a cloth twice may be used as alternative protection to help reduce particle inhalation.

The haze has been linked to forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, with smoke carried toward the Philippines by the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat.

The DOH also reminded the public to monitor air quality in their area and prioritize safety, especially when haze becomes thick or visibility is reduced.

Those who experience severe difficulty breathing or other urgent symptoms are advised to seek immediate medical assistance or call the National Emergency Hotline 911.