Jakarta. About 3.3 million older Indonesians are at risk of health problems from exposure to volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, the Health Ministry said Monday, warning that the impact could extend beyond respiratory illnesses.

Imran Pambudi, the ministry’s director of health services for vulnerable groups, said volcanic ash differs from ordinary dust because its fine particles and high silica content can harm the lungs, eyes and skin.

“Volcanic ash is hazardous to the lungs, eyes and skin,” Imran said in Jakarta, as quoted by Antara on Monday.

Exposure can trigger respiratory infections, breathing difficulties, and worsening asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. For older adults with existing health conditions, it can also increase cardiovascular risks, including high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes.

The health impact may also include eye and skin irritation as well as psychological stress, particularly among those forced to evacuate or isolated during an eruption.

Anak Krakatau’s latest activity has sent volcanic ash across parts of Banten, Lampung, Jakarta, and West Java, disrupting flights and prompting authorities to take precautionary measures.

Imran urged families and caregivers to give older adults priority in emergency preparations, including ensuring access to regular medication and monitoring for signs of worsening illness.

Residents exposed to ash should use N95 or KN95 masks and protective eyewear, keep doors and windows closed, and wet volcanic ash before cleaning it to prevent fine particles from becoming airborne.

Health facilities in affected areas should also prepare medicines, oxygen equipment, and medical personnel to respond to complications and emergency evacuations, he said.

The Health Ministry’s warning comes as Indonesia continues to monitor Anak Krakatau, whose 2018 eruption triggered a tsunami in the Sunda Strait.

Imran said the latest eruption underscored the need to treat volcanic activity not only as an environmental hazard but also as a public health emergency, particularly for vulnerable groups such as older adults.

Add as a preferred source on Google +