25 Jun 2019 | 02:23 AM UTC
Malaysia: Nearly 500 schools in Johor close due to pollution June 25-27
Johor government officials close 475 schools in Pasir Gudang due to air pollution June 25-27; 75 students hospitalized due to related medical problems
Event
Johor state officials closed 475 schools in Pasir Gudang (Johor Bahru district) until at least Thursday, June 27, due to ongoing air pollution problems, affecting more than 20,000 students. At least 75 students have been hospitalized due to related medical problems, including breathing difficulties and vomiting. Health officials urged the public to seek medical attention if experiencing breathing difficulties, nausea, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue.
Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) announced on Monday, June 24, that pollution from Pasir Gudang is not expected to affect the island nation in the coming week due to prevailing winds; pollution levels remain normal.
Context
The current situation is not related to the March 2018 Sungai Kim Kim incident, which affected 4000 people due to illegal dumping of chemical products; three men were charged in relation to that incident.
Advice
Individuals in Pasir Gudang and the neighboring areas are advised to monitor the situation and air pollution levels, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, and seek medical attention if exhibiting symptoms including breathing difficulties, nausea, dizziness, headaches, muscle cramps, and fatigue.
