OCT 24 — All of us are struggling to deal with the extremely poor air quality that has been prolonged and been plaguing us more than 15 years. There is still much misinformation circulating, some even by government sources. In addition the average person on the street often has responses that may not be helpful and even harmful. I would like to point out some facts on the use of masks and the effects of the smog/smoke coming our way.

Are normal Surgical Masks useful? i.e. single ply (usually white) or 3 ply masks (usually green or blue & thicker)?

It is important to recognise that most of the harmful substances in the smoke/smog coming our way consist of very small particles, most under 2.5 microns in size. A recent report suggest that the chemicals we are inhaling include “ozone, carbon monoxide, cyanide, ammonia and formaldehyde”. The single ply surgical masks (usually white) are ineffective. The usual 3 ply masks surgical masks (usually green or blue & thicker) also cannot filter these fine particles. It may offer some protection against larger particles that irritate, hence may be useful for some exposure outdoors, on a bike, etc.

How long do Surgical Masks Last (3 ply masks)?

Once these masks are damp (wet) or you cough or sneeze in them, they are ineffective. So they need to be changed often.

What about home-made or purchased Cloth Masks?

Many have resorted to the use of cloth masks as they are cheaper and can be washed and re-used. A recent study published in the British Medical Journal showed that “penetration of cloth masks by particles was almost 97 per cent compared to 44 per cent with medical masks (3 ply)”. The study also found that respiratory infection was much higher among healthcare workers wearing cloth masks. They caution against the use of cloth masks (retains moisture, have poor filtration, increased risk of infection).

Do N95 masks protect against the Smoke/Smog?

N95 masks are called this because they filter at least 95 per cent of airborne particles. They are more effective but only if worn correctly with a “good fit to the face of the wearer”. They work only if air comes in via the filter. Leaving gaps means the mask fails to offer protection. There was a recent suggestion to keep a “small window” in the mask to help children breathe easier, but this defeats the mask’s function. N95 masks are not easy to wear for long, they increase the effort of breathing, reduce volume of air and can cause discomfort. Care is required in their use in the elderly, children or those with cardiac or lung conditions.

Is staying in-doors useful?

The air we are breathing outside and inside the house is the same. The reason to stay indoors is to decrease outdoor activities and decrease our exertion. Exerting ourselves means breathing in more of the toxins faster and increasing tissue damage.

Do air conditioners and air purifiers work?

The general opinion is that they help reduce pollutants but only with all entry points closed – doors and windows shut. Of course air conditioners also damage the environment. We require some detailed studies on their efficacy for smoke/smog as there are so many brands in the market with different filtration systems and not all may be effective.

Will our Long-term Health be Affected by the Smoke/Smog

Authorities want to reassure us that breathing in smog/smoke for a few months every year for decades is harmless. No one believes this. There is some immediate effect in terms of respiratory irritation and but breathing in the chemicals mentioned above will in the long term result in a significant impact on our population’s health. It is worth reading two older RAND publications on The Dangers of Smoke Haze - Mortality in Malaysia from Indonesian Forest Fires and Forest Fires, Air Pollution, and Mortality in Southeast Asia.

One report this year “Don’t inhale: Scientists look at what the Indonesian haze is made of” is very worrying.

We require honest, meaningful responses from our government and a decisive plan to end the current crisis and prevent the yearly occurrence.

Anything less may result in a future unbearable cost.

* This is the personal opinion of the writer and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail Online.