Forest and land fires are currently impacting 87 regencies/cities across seven provinces in Indonesia, according to the Ministry of Health data as of August 21, 2026. Doctors are advising the public on how to protect themselves from the resulting smoke haze. Simply wearing a mask is insufficient protection, experts say. Further details on preventative measures are being released to address the widespread impact of the fires. The Ministry of Health is monitoring the situation closely and providing updates as the fires continue to burn. Residents in affected areas are urged to take precautions beyond mask-wearing to safeguard their health. The scale of the fires indicates a significant environmental and public health challenge.