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Meaning and causes
Haze consists of small dry particles suspended in air. Sources vary: combustion, secondary particles formed in air, and natural dust. It differs from fog, which mainly consists of water droplets.
Wildfire smoke and other haze
Smoke from forest or peat fires can cause widespread haze and contains particles and gases. Not all haze comes from fires. This guide does not report a current pollution event in Fukuoka.
Haze, yellow dust and PM2.5
Haze describes an atmospheric appearance; yellow dust describes windblown soil and mineral particles; PM2.5 describes a size fraction. They overlap but are not synonyms.
Symptoms and allergies
Irritation, a runny or blocked nose, throat discomfort and cough may occur. Infection, allergy and asthma can cause similar symptoms. Irritation is not the same mechanism as an allergic reaction.
Reduce exposure
Check local measurements and forecasts. Adjust prolonged outdoor activity. A well-fitting particulate respirator such as an N95 may reduce particles, but does not filter harmful gases. Do not force masks on young children. Use a suitable particle air cleaner and maintain necessary ventilation safely.
People who need extra care
Children, older adults and people with asthma or heart or lung disease should adjust activity to their health. Continue prescribed medication and discuss an action plan with your clinician.
Air-quality information in Fukuoka
Fukuoka forecasts and official advisories and monitoring links (Japanese). Check the place and time; forecasts and measurements are different.
When to seek care
Contact an ENT clinic for persistent nose or throat symptoms or cough. We assess the history and examine the nose and throat; tests and treatment depend on findings. Other causes, including infection and asthma, must be considered. Referral to internal or respiratory medicine may be needed.
Call 119 for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, blue lips or altered consciousness. Do not assume these are due to air pollution. Sublingual immunotherapy is not provided at this clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Is haze contagious?
Haze itself is not infectious, but a cough or runny nose can have an infectious cause.
Related guides
Visiting Honda ENT Clinic
Check temporary changes
| Day | Morning | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|
| Mon / Tue / Wed / Fri | 9:00–12:30 | 15:00–18:20 |
| Saturday | 9:00–11:00 | 14:00–16:00 |
| Closed | Thursday, Sunday and public holidays | |
Reception opens 15 minutes before each session. Walk-ins are welcome for general consultations. Vaccinations may require an appointment.
Please call before visiting if you have a fever of 37.5°C or higher, a recent positive infection test, a household member with an infection, or would like infection testing. The waiting-time service is in Japanese.
Schedules can change. Check clinic news or call before travelling.
References and information management
Published by Honda ENT Clinic. Content management: Medical Director Dr. Yusuke Honda. Reference checking and editing: website administration. Updated: 18 October 2026.
General information; individual diagnosis and treatment require clinical assessment.