BMA cautions Bangkok residents of high PM2.5 levels from Nov 9-12

The assistant secretary to the Bangkok governor and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) spokesman, Aekvarunyoo Amrapala, said that due to co-related factors and the weather, air quality was expected to be poor from November 9-12.

The concentration of PM2.5 particles — particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter — were expected to be high, reaching the “orange zone”, which could have adverse affects on public health, the official said.

To prepare for this situation, the BMA has urged residents to wear masks when going outside, especially vulnerable groups like the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Those who experience symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, difficulty in breathing, fatigue, rashes, or red eyes, are advised to seek medical attention promptly.

Additionally, the BMA has set up emergency medical clinics specifically for dealing with air pollution caused by PM2.5 particles exceeding 75 micrograms per cubic metre. The following is the list of designated hospitals:

1. Bangkok Central Hospital: Tel 02-220-8000 ext 10811 (Tuesdays and Fridays, 8am – noon)

2. Taksin Hospital: Tel 02-437-0123 ext 1426, 1430 (Monday to Friday, except Wednesdays and public holidays, 9am to noon)

3. Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital: Tel 02-289-7225 (Wednesdays 1pm - 3pm)

4. Luang Phor Thawee Sakdinantham Hospital: Tel 02-429-3576 ext 8522 (Thursdays, 8am - noon)

5. Wetchakarunroj Hospital: Tel 02-543-2090 or 084-215-3278 (Tuesdays, 1pm - 4pm)

6.Lad Krabang Hospital, Bangkok: Tel 02-326-9995 (Monday to Friday, 8am - 4pm)

7. Ratchaphiphat Hospital: Tel 063-324-11216 or 099-170-5879 (Monday to Friday, 8am - 4pm)

8. Sirindhorn Hospital: Tel 02-328-6901 ext 11434 (Tuesdays, 1pm to 4pm)

These clinics will provide consultations to the public and offer medical examinations to reduce the severity of symptoms caused by PM2.5 particles.

Bangkok authorities will also notify residents through various channels, including the AirBKK app, www.airquality.airbkk.com, Bangkok's environmental department Facebook page, and LINE ALERT and LINE OA (@airbangkok) for real-time updates on air quality.

Citizens are encouraged to report sources of pollution through Traffy Fondue, which is the BMA's online complaints platform.