Respiratory issues have surged in Indonesia, with over 170,000 cases reported in areas affected by severe haze, according to a recent statement from the Health Ministry. The increase is linked to widespread wildfires that have been burning in regions like Borneo, Sumatra, and Papua for weeks. These fires have created a thick layer of toxic smog, which has spread across Indonesia and into neighboring countries like Malaysia and Singapore, severely degrading air quality. The smog contains harmful pollutants, including PM2.5—fine particulate matter smaller than a human hair—that can cause or worsen respiratory infections and other health issues. According to Health Ministry official Then Suyanti, there were 174,694 cases of acute respiratory infections between August and September 21 in regions affected by forest and land fires. Of these, over 40,000 cases were among children under five years old. This number has risen from more than 113,000 cases reported as of September 9, highlighting the growing health crisis. In response, the Health Ministry has deployed medical aid to affected areas, including oxygen concentrators, face masks, and oxygen canisters. Officials have urged the public to limit outdoor activities when air quality is poor, use masks, and stay hydrated to reduce health risks. These measures come as Indonesia faces its annual challenge of wildfires during the dry season, which typically runs from July to October. This year's fires are more severe than usual, coinciding with the strongest El Niño weather pattern in four decades. El Niño often brings hotter and drier conditions, increasing the likelihood and intensity of wildfires. Experts also point to long-term factors such as climate change, forest degradation, and slash-and-burn practices that have altered the natural fire resistance of the region's ecosystems. These combined factors have made the current situation particularly dangerous and difficult to control.