Jakarta, Sept. 7 -- Indonesia's Ministry of Health said some 3.3 million elderly people in areas surrounding Anak Krakatau volcano, including Banten, South Lampung, Jakarta, and parts of West Java, face health risks from volcanic ash, highlighting the urgency of mitigation efforts.

"The sharp silica particles contained in volcanic ash make it dangerous to the lungs, eyes, and skin. When mixed with water, the ash can harden like cement, so improper cleaning can actually increase the risks," the ministry's Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups, Imran Pambudi, said here on Monday.

Pambudi stressed that exposure to volcanic ash can cause several health problems, including acute respiratory infections, breathing difficulties, and...