Haze: 20 to 30 per cent increase in out-patients at govt hospitals

PUTRAJAYA,  Sept 17 --  The number of outpatients at government hospitals has increased between 20 and 30 per cent since the country is engulfed by haze, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.

He said a 30 per cent increase in patients was recorded for the ophthalmology service involving cases of dry eyes and allergic conjunctivitis.

“The health facilities under the ministry are ready for any drastic increase in cases due to the haze,” he told reporters after launching the maiden World Patient Safety Day and seminar on patient safety here today.

At the media conference, the head of the ministry’s Ophthalmology Service, Dr Nor Fariza Ngah said most patients who sought treatment at the 42 government hospitals were for allergic conjunctivitis, which is not infectious.

But, it causes discomfort, like making the eyes red and watery, as well as dry, she added.

"We advise patients to use appropriate artificial tears and reduce exposure to outdoor activities," said Dr Nor Fariza, who is also a consultant at Shah Alam Hospital.

She said Health Ministry has sufficient supply of medicine to deal with the current haze situation.

On patients seeking eye treatment at Shah Alam Hospital, she said the number doubled to 80 from 40 daily normally,

-- BERNAMA