Health Agency: Don't Panic! COVID-19 Surge May Occur Every Six Months
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14 December 2023 22:19 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Jakarta Health Agency called on the public not to panic over the recent surge in COVID-19 cases. The agency’s head of surveillance, epidemiology, and immunization unit, Ngabila Salama, said the increase in infections could be expected every six months in line with the change of seasons and the weakening of the immune system.
“During the [current] endemic phase, activity restriction is not yet necessary and individuals should take responsibility for maintaining their health,” Ngabila said in a statement on Thursday, Dec. 14. She said the agency was aiming for zero deaths during the endemic period.
She said the government is currently focusing on promoting and providing vaccinations and conducting free PCR tests. People, particularly vulnerable ones, are strongly encouraged to get the booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. “Because if they are infected, they have a higher risk of death.”
Vulnerable people include those aged 50 years and above, those who have not yet been vaccinated, and those who have comorbid diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, stroke, heart disease, chronic kidney failure, cancer, tuberculosis, and HIV.
Ngabila explained that unvaccinated people or those with immunodeficiency could create new viral mutations. The coronavirus will continue to mutate to become more contagious. However, it should not make the case worse, but the symptoms will be milder.
The infection, she went on, could be severe in unvaccinated people or those with comorbidities. The booster vaccine increases the antibodies to fight against the virus, so it is better to be vaccinated late than never.
For people having a cough or cold, Ngabila said it would be better to postpone vaccination until they recover. People who test positive for COVID-19 can get a vaccination one month after they are declared cured. The COVID-19 vaccine can be delayed at least 14 days after receiving other vaccines.
MUTIA YUANTISYA
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