# Haze harms children's health

> Haze threatens children's health beyond school closures.
- Title: Haze harms children's health · Malay Mail | Shortify
- Summary: Haze threatens children's health beyond school closures. Haze exposes children to harmful air pollution that affects respiratory and cognitive development…
- Keywords: haze, children, respiratory health, school closures, pm2.5, air pollution, malaysia, news, world, harms, children's, health
- Source: Malay Mail — https://malaymail.com/news/what-you-think/2026/10/12/the-effects-of-haze-on-our-little-ones-jeyasakthy-saniasiaya/238760
- Published: 2026-10-12T11:01:26+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: haze, children, respiratory health, school closures, pm2.5, air pollution, malaysia, news, world
## School closures due to haze
Malaysian states closed schools on October 9, 2026, as haze worsened.
## Haze impacts children's health
Haze contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that affects respiratory and cognitive development in children.
## Children more vulnerable
Children's developing lungs and higher breathing rates increase their exposure to polluted air.
## Immediate health effects
Children may experience nasal irritation, coughing, eye irritation, and breathing difficulties during haze.
## Long-term risks
Prolonged haze exposure can impair lung development and cognitive function in children.
## Children with medical conditions
Children with pre-existing respiratory conditions need extra precautions during haze episodes.
## Warning signs for parents
Persistent coughing, wheezing, and reduced activity in children may indicate serious respiratory issues.
## Immediate protective measures
Parents should monitor air quality, close windows, use HEPA filters, and avoid outdoor activities during haze.
## Long-term health concerns
Repeated haze exposure can lead to chronic respiratory problems and impaired cognitive development in children.
## Year-round protection needed
Protecting children from air pollution requires sustained efforts beyond episodic haze events.
## Haze health responsibility
Children's respiratory health depends on the environment they grow in, requiring daily attention.
## Key takeaway

Haze exposes children to harmful air pollution that affects respiratory and cognitive development, requiring year-round protection.