The Ministry of Health advises the public that due to the recent and ongoing bush and backyard fires set by some individuals, many persons have reported side effects such as irritated eyes, prolonged coughing spells, and worsening of existing breathing problems.
The Ministry reminds the public that the creation of smoke nuisance is illegal under the Public Health Act and can lead to further prosecution. This is in addition to the new regulations cited as Environment Protection Regulations via Statutory Instrument No. 59 of 2020 which calls on the prohibition of burning of bush, milpa, agricultural fields, pasture, grass, or any type of vegetation during the state of emergency, including the open burning of household and yard waste.
The Ministry of Health joins the call from the Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, and Sustainable Development for the public to stop all open burning to avoid unnecessary ill effects on communities, especially for those suffering from lung disease or ongoing breathing problems.
