Children treated for smoke-related breathing problems at Indonesian clinic amid wildfires

Al Jazeera correspondent Jessica Washington reported from a temporary clinic in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, where medical staff are treating a growing number of children experiencing respiratory distress as thick haze from regional wildfires lingers over the province. The clinic, set up by the local health department in collaboration with the Indonesian Ministry of Health, has admitted more than 120 pediatric patients since the haze intensified three days ago, with doctors noting a sharp rise in cases of asthma exacerbations, bronchitis and other breathing difficulties. Officials attribute the haze to uncontrolled slash‑and‑burn practices in nearby peatlands, which have ignited extensive forest fires that are producing fine particulate matter (PM2.5) well above World Health Organization safety thresholds.

Health authorities are distributing masks, conducting air‑quality monitoring and advising families to keep children indoors, while the Ministry of Environment and Forestry works to contain the fires and prevent further spread. The clinic’s staff, supported by volunteers from the Red Cross, are providing oxygen therapy and inhaled bronchodilators, and are coordinating with regional hospitals for any severe cases that require advanced care. As the haze persists, officials warn that the health impact could extend beyond the current surge, urging continued vigilance and rapid response to the underlying fire activity.