The Importance Of Masks As A Step To Prevent The Spread Of COVID-19

JAKARTA - Health Minister Terawan Agus Putranto issued a statement that healthy people do not need to wear masks. The use of masks is more for people who are sick. He said this statement after two Indonesian citizens were infected with the corona virus or (COVID-19).

"(The use of masks) the sick who are wearing, the unhealthy ones, don't use them first. Because if the price is scarcity and so on, that's the market," said Terawan.

Terawan's statement was criticized by the Expert Council of the Indonesian Public Health Expert Association (IKAMI) Hermawan Saputra. He said, the use of masks is very important at this time. Moreover, there were indications that the virus had spread because two patients were identified.

He explained that the spread of the COVID-19 virus was similar to influenza. With the habit of Jakarta people who have high outdoor activities, if there is no protection, namely masks, the possibility of contracting the virus will be even greater.

"The transmission (of the corona virus) is direct. So, it is important to take precautions by using a mask," said Hermawan to VOI, Monday, March 2.

However, he said, the public must be wise in using masks. The use of medical devices only needs to be done in crowded places. This does not mean that it must be used all the time or when in the home or family environment. If you use an excessive amount of masks, what will only be caused is excessive panic.

"The use of masks is more appropriate. So as a precaution, it is important. But that does not mean it becomes panic," said Hermawan.

Apart from the use of masks, there are several things that must be considered, namely, body hygiene after activities. So, washing hands and so on, is now important to take steps to prevent the spread of the Corona virus.

"The use of hand sanitizers is also an important step (for prevention). In essence, there must be wisdom in its use," said Hermawan.