Volcanic Ash From Anak Krakatau Raises Respiratory Risks for Children, Pediatricians Warn

Jakarta. Volcanic ash from the ongoing eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau poses a respiratory health risk to children, particularly those with asthma, allergies, or chronic lung conditions, the Indonesian Pediatricians Association (IDAI) has warned.

The eruption, which began on Sept. 4, 2026, has sent ash toward Greater Jakarta, Banten, Lampung, and parts of West Java. The Geological Agency of the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has said volcanic activity remains high, with no indication that the eruption is slowing.

IDAI Chairman Piprim Basarah Yanuarso urged parents to take preventive measures rather than wait for children to develop symptoms.

“Nothing is more precious than the lives and futures of our children,” Piprim said, calling for swift measures to limit their exposure to volcanic ash.

Volcanic ash is not ordinary dust

Wahyuni Indawati, chair of IDAI’s Respirology Coordination Unit, said volcanic ash consists of extremely fine particles of rock, minerals, and volcanic glass that can irritate the respiratory tract when inhaled.

The ash may also contain gases such as sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide, which can contribute to respiratory irritation and inflammation.

Common symptoms include sneezing, coughing, a runny nose and shortness of breath. For children with asthma, allergies, or chronic lung disease, exposure can trigger acute attacks or worsen existing conditions, Wahyuni said.

Infants with a history of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and children with congenital heart disease are also considered particularly vulnerable.

Parents should seek immediate medical attention if children develop signs of respiratory distress, including rapid breathing, chest-wall retractions or oxygen saturation below 94%, Wahyuni said.

IDAI urges parents to limit exposure

IDAI recommends removing children from areas affected by volcanic ash whenever possible. If evacuation is not possible, children should remain indoors when air quality is poor, defined by IDAI as an Air Pollution Standard Index, or ISPU, reading above 100.

Parents should monitor local air quality and keep homes as well sealed as possible. Air conditioners that draw in outdoor air should be switched off or set to recirculation mode.

Fans should also be avoided when ash has settled indoors because they can stir particles back into the air.

Homes should be cleaned using damp cloths and wet-cleaning methods rather than dry sweeping, which can send ash particles back into the air. Children should be kept away from areas while they are being cleaned.

If children must go outside, those older than 2 should wear a properly fitted children's mask. IDAI also recommends eye protection and clothing that covers the skin to reduce exposure.

After returning indoors, children should wash and change their clothes to remove ash particles that may have settled on their bodies or clothing.

Keep asthma medication on hand

Parents of children with asthma or respiratory allergies should ensure that their routine and emergency medications are readily available, IDAI said.

Children should also be protected from other indoor air pollutants, including cigarette smoke and cooking fumes, which can further irritate the respiratory tract.

Adequate fluid intake and a balanced diet are also recommended to help children maintain their overall health while volcanic ash affects air quality.

IDAI reiterated that parents should take children to a hospital immediately if they experience shortness of breath, rapid breathing, chest-wall retractions, or oxygen saturation below 94%.

With the eruption continuing and ash affecting several populated areas, pediatricians are urging families to reduce children's exposure before respiratory symptoms become severe.

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