COVID-19 Spike in Jakarta 'Still Manageable', Health Office Says

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Jakarta Health Office revealed a jolt in COVID-19 cases in the province from May to June 2023.

"It's still manageable, 95 percent had light symptoms and were asymptomatic," Ngabila Salma, the Head of the Epidemiologist Surveillance and Immunization Division of the Jakarta Health Office said on Tuesday, Dec. 5.

Despite the increase in number, Ngabila said there was no increase in hospitalized patients. 

COVID-19 in Indonesia already entered its endemic phase last June. However, she said a surge could happen every six months.

"The pattern is similar to the acute respiratory infection (ISPA), a hole happened during the transitional season and rainy season," she said.

She urged Jakartans to conduct preventive measures against COVID-19 infection by implementing a healthy lifestyle and routine immunization.

"There are 15 free immunizations from the government for children and adults. The COVID-19 vaccines for the first to fourth dosage for 18 years and older are available for free at nearby public health facilities and hospitals, especially for vulnerable groups," she explained.

She also urged people with COVID-19 symptoms or having contact with infected people to conduct antigen and PCR tests. 

"Research on whole genome sequencing is also necessary to detect new variants that cause [COVID cases] spike in several countries," she concluded.

NOVALI PANJI NUGROHO

Editor's Choice: Experts Urge COVID-19 Treatment in the Endemic Age

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News