Based on the statistics of the 2019 readings of Thailand’s air quality index, on average the whole country has a yearly rating of being ‘moderately’ polluted. The PM2.5 concentration is two times above the WHO’s recommended guideline for annual PM2.5 exposure (10 μg/m3), coming in at a reading of 24.3 μg/m3. Those with respiratory issues or sensitivity to pollution or the other chemicals found in common city smoke (such as CO, SO2, NO2) should take precautions to wear a mask, particularly in certain areas or times of the day, or months of the year.
January through to May seem to be months with the highest concentrations of PM2.5, with the remaining months being less polluted until December when the pollution level begins to climb again, making mask wearing a good choice to go with.
This data can be found on the air quality map with active real time updates, as well as on the AirVisual app that can be accessed with ease on the go. Special high-quality air pollution masks are also available via the IQAir online shop, that provide a higher standard of protection to those that may need them.