Unsafe PM2.5 levels force school closures

Authorities in Bokeo​ and Xayaboury provinces have instructed all kindergarten classes to close temporarily as the northwest of the country is covered with thick haze due to high levels of airborne particulate matter (PM).
Officials say forest fires occurring in many areas of the country have created large amount of fine particulate matter, driving PM2.5 levels to unprecedented highs.
In Bokeo, the provincial Education​ and Sports Department advised kindergartens to close from March 28-31.
Primary and secondary schools and universities will remain open, but outdoor activities have been prohibited to avoid harmful effects on people’s health.
The school closure comes after the Ministry of Health advised members of the public to limit outdoor activities given the current dangerous level of airborne particulate matter, with the amount of particles having a diameter of 2.5 microns or less rising to unsafe levels.
The provincial Education and Sports Department also advised students not to go outdoors unless essential. Those having to go out are advised to wear a face mask and follow the measures recommended by the Ministry of Health in order to reduce inhalation of fine ash or dust.
Authorities in Xayaboury province have also ordered the temporary closure of kindergartens and Grades 1 to 4 of primary schools in districts where PM2.5 readings exceed the safety level defined by the World Health Organisation.
Children in Grade 5 of primary schools, secondary schools and schools in districts where PM2.5 levels are not deemed to be hazardous may continue to attend school.
Authorities in Thaphabath district, Borikhamxay province, also instructed all schools in the district to close temporarily from March 28-29 due to severe air pollution.
Given the continuing air pollution, the health ministry has advised pregnant woman, children and elderly people, and people with a chronic respiratory disease, to stay indoors as much as possible.
People with asthma, any chronic lung disease or cardiovascular disease are also at risk of exacerbated symptoms, which could prove fatal.
Health officials warn that prolonged outdoor activity such as exercise should be avoided, while it is advisable to drink plenty of water and drinks with mineral salts. Anyone with abnormal health symptoms is advised to see a doctor immediately.

By Times Reporters​
 (Latest Update March 30, 2023)