Haze is tiny particles in the air that make it hard to see clearly. Imagine a light fog, but sometimes much worse. These tiny particles are so small you can't even see them individually!
What Happens When Children Breathe in Haze?
For children, haze can be especially bothersome. The tiny particles can irritate their eyes, nose, and throat. This can lead to:
- Irritated eyes (conjunctivitis): Their eyes might feel itchy, watery, or red.
- Runny nose (rhinitis): They might sneeze a lot and have a runny or stuffy nose.
- Sore throat: Their throat might feel scratchy or painful.
- Coughing and wheezing: They might cough more often than usual, and some might even wheeze. This is especially concerning for children with asthma.
Important Note: Haze particles can make existing health problems worse. For example, children with asthma might have more severe asthma attacks during hazy periods. Inhaling haze particles over a long time can also contribute to chronic lung diseases later in life.
Protecting Children from Haze
When the air is hazy, it's best to keep children indoors as much as possible. If they must go outside, consider using a mask designed for particulate matter.
