Burning Season in Northern Thailand is the time from February to April when the region’s arid weather causes vegetation to dry up. Sometimes, the intensity of the weather makes vegetation catch fire. As a result, air quality during this period is very poor and can affect your breathing. Here’s what you need to know to protect your lungs during the burning season.
Wear a Proper Mask
The wildfires that ravage the north of Thailand, specifically the cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, release dangerous particles into the air. When breathed in, these particles can cause serious respiratory problems. A great and simple way to avoid breathing in these toxic particles is by wearing a mask.
Since the particles are released into the air, wearing an appropriate mask is important. A basic surgical mask will not protect your lungs from harmful substances during the burning season. So, make sure you wear the right mask. An N95 mask is your best bet because these are built to filter about 95% of airborne particles. Getting the mask fitted to the specific contour of your face is also important. If the mask visibly compresses whenever you breathe in, then you know it’s fitted properly and you’re wearing it the right way.
Stay Indoors
Staying indoors as much as possible during the burning season is also another great way to protect yourself from harmful air quality. Avoid needlessly going out. If you’re in the north of Thailand for vacation, try to visit covered tourist attractions such as indoor temples or museums. If you’re in the area for business, limit your trips to work-related affairs. Choose to eat at restaurants that offer indoor seating and avoid lingering on the streets for extended periods. Remember, the longer that you’re outdoors, the more your exposure to dangerous particles is.
Go South
If you have to visit Thailand between February and April, try to visit the southern cities. There isn’t really a burning season in the south of Thailand, because the weather there is milder and cooler. Some nice areas in Thailand that have good air quality even during the north’s burning season are Phuket and Ko Kut. In fact, Ko Kut is known to have the best air quality in the whole country.
Stay Healthy During Burning Season
Northern Thailand’s burning season is not something to sniff at. The toxic air quality that results is very dangerous and can lead to intense respiratory problems. While the best way to stay safe during this time is to avoid going to the north of Thailand altogether, there are some other things you can do if you must go. Wearing a fitted N95 mask and staying indoors whenever possible will help to protect your breathing.
Passport Health offers a variety of vaccination and physical services to help you stay safe and healthy at home and abroad. Call 937-306-7541 or book online to schedule your appointment today.
Ese Agboh is a student nurse who wants to specialize in pediatric nursing and wound care. In her free time, she enjoys reading and writing articles related to medicine and the pathophysiology of communicable diseases. Ese currently lives and studies on the east coast of the United States.
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