Indonesian Health Ministry Warns Elderly of Health Risks from Anak Krakatau Volcanic Ash

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has issued a warning regarding the health risks posed by volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau to approximately 3.3 million elderly individuals in surrounding areas, including Banten, South Lampung, Jakarta, and parts of West Java. The ministry highlighted that sharp silica particles in the ash are dangerous to the lungs, eyes, and skin, and can harden like cement when mixed with water, increasing risks if not cleaned properly. Exposure can lead to acute respiratory infections, breathing difficulties, exacerbation of asthma and COPD, and increased cardiovascular risks like heart attacks and strokes.