Approaching New Year: Jakarta Warns of Potential Third Wave of Covid-19

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Head of Epidemiology and Immunization Surveillance Section of DKI Jakarta Health Service Ngabila Salama, said that there are five factors that can increase the transmission of Covid-19. She also raised awareness on the potential of third Covid-19 infection wave, especially during the new year period.

"Towards the end of year, usually the case are increasing," Ngabila said while providing an explanation broadcasted through the Cilincing PKC Youtube account, as quoted by Tempo on Friday, October 22 , 2021.

The new variant of the virus is the first factor. Ngabila gives an example that the Delta Variant can be easily transmitted, more deadlier, and has the capability of infecting children.

"There are dangerous variants, like Delta among the new 24 mutated viruses," Ngabila explained.

Another Factor, Ngabila added, is the the vaccination program which are not spread evenly. According to her, vaccination in Jakarta has reached 80 percent, but in other areas it has only reached 30 to 40 percent.

The third factor according to Ngabila is intense social interaction following the easing of public mobility restriction.

"The one who has not been vaccinated is the reason for the increasing of number of cases and a new mutating virus," Ngabila said.

Furthermore, Ngabila also mentioned that there are people who do not obey Covid-19 Health Protocol. Ngabila said that people should continue to wear masks, wash hands, keep their distance, avoid crowds, prevent high mobility and avoid eating out together.

Another factor to be aware of as Ngabila explained, is the emergence of fake news or hoax. People need to check the truth of an information posted on the internet.

LANI DIANA WIJAYA