Around 175,000 people in Indonesia have suffered respiratory illness since August, in a period the BBC links to toxic smog from wildfires.
Key facts
- Around 175,000 people in Indonesia have suffered respiratory illness since August, according to the BBC.
- The BBC links the illnesses to toxic smog from wildfires.
- The report was published by the BBC on 23 September 2026.
Around 175,000 people in Indonesia have suffered respiratory illness since August, according to a BBC report published on 23 September 2026. The broadcaster links the illnesses to toxic smog produced by wildfires.
The BBC’s coverage focused on how the smog is affecting Indonesians and the toll the haze is taking on affected communities.
The BBC report did not provide further figures such as the geographic spread of the fires or the number of hospitalisations.
Why it matters
A figure of around 175,000 respiratory illness cases since August points to a significant public health impact from wildfire smog in Indonesia.
Frequently asked questions
How many people in Indonesia have become ill from the smog?
According to the BBC, around 175,000 people in Indonesia have suffered from respiratory illness since August.
What is causing the illnesses?
The BBC reports that the illnesses are linked to toxic smog from wildfires in Indonesia.
When did the reported illnesses begin?
The BBC says the respiratory illnesses have occurred since August.