TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - University of Indonesia (UI) epidemiologist Tri Yunis Miko Wahyono on Tuesday highly suggested the Jakarta administration impose a stricter health protocol amidst the transitional PSBB (large-scale social restriction) and suggests the requirement to wear face shields to add to the existing face mask rule.

“The general protocol that is currently being adopted is not enough. Because the government introduced a transitional before being able to take control of the situation,” said Tri on June 23.

According to the current general health protocol, people are advised to always wear face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Everyone is also highly encouraged to always maintain a safe distance between each other while conducting outdoor activities.

Tri suggests that face shields be a requirement too. “So for the new rules, they can add face shields to the list of requirements.” Tri claims to have personally suggested this idea to the Jakarta Deputy Governor Ahmad Riza Patria on Saturday last week.

He says the government is considering it and weighing the possibility to make face shields a requirement. The Jakarta administration is gradually lifting the COVID-19 restrictions despite being unable to fulfill the WHO’s six requirements before lifting restrictions.

“The Jakarta Governor was under economic pressure. Indonesia would seize if Jakarta closes,” said the UI epidemiologist.

Read also: Train Passengers Required to Wear Face Shield: Govt

IMAM HAMDI