COVID-19 Task Force: PCR At International Gateway Can Detect Omicron

JAKARTA - Spokesperson for the COVID-19 Handling Task Force Wiku Adisasmito said six international entry gates have used PCR test kits that can detect the Omicron variant.

"Data from the Ministry of Health shows that testing has been continued at six foreign arrival gates, where each lab has the ability to test 500 to 600 samples every day," he said, quoted by Antara, Tuesday, December 6.

In addition to adjusting the PCR test, to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, the government has also temporarily restricted the entry of international travelers with a travel history or have visited countries that have confirmed the presence of the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

The countries in question are South Africa, Bozwana, Hong Kong, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Eswatini, and Lesotho.

Indonesian citizens (WNI) who in the last 14 days have traveled or stopped in these countries are required to quarantine for 14 days with the implementation of the COVID-19 test on the first day and the 13th day.

Foreigners and Indonesian citizens who travel or transit in countries that have not confirmed the COVID-19 variant of the Omicron are allowed to enter Indonesia, with the obligation to carry out quarantine for 10 days and carry out tests on the first and 9th days.

The government stipulates the exception of temporary restrictions for foreigners from countries that have a bilateral agreement scheme with Indonesia, diplomatic and service VISA holders, Temporary Stay Permit Cardholders (KITAS) and Permanent Stay Permit Cards (KITAP), and foreigners equivalent to ministers and above.

"Foreigners who enter through the diplomatic agreement scheme are not obliged to quarantine, but they will be monitored further with very strict health protocols," he said.

The Indonesian government will make its best efforts to maintain good relations with other countries when COVID-19 cases in several countries have increased due to the spread of the Omicron variant.

"The Indonesian government believes that there are no other considerations than these considerations. During these trying conditions, which unfortunately have been going on for almost two years, Indonesia believes all countries should put more emphasis on joint efforts to help each other," he said.

Foreigners and Indonesian citizens who must quarantine will be directed to the Pademangan Athlete's Wisma or Grass Market with a capacity of 3,700 rooms and to 70 hotels in Indonesia. Therefore, the quarantine room will certainly be sufficient.