GEORGE TOWN, Aug 28 — The haze detected in several areas in Penang yesterday has worsened, with the air quality almost at the unhealthy level today.

State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said the air pollution index in Perai was 80; in Seberang Jaya, 92, and in Universiti Sains Malaysia, 88, as at 9 am today compared to between 58 and 63 yesterday evening.

The air pollution level is categorised as hazardous when the reading is 301 or more; very unhealthy at 201 to 300; unhealthy at 101 to 200; moderate at 51 to 100 and good at zero to 50.

Phee said the state government had made available face masks for distribution free to school children.

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He advised the people to reduce outdoor recreational activities and drink plenty of water.

Those who had a cough and experienced breathing difficulties should seek medical treatment, he said.  – Bernama