COVID-19 Increases In Neighboring Countries, Ministry Of Health Has Not Yet Taken Tightening Steps
JAKARTA - The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia urges the public to remain vigilant following the increase in COVID-19 cases in a number of Asian countries, such as Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong.
The three countries are currently experiencing an upward trend in cases amid high community mobility, including from Indonesia, which is expected to travel abroad in the near future. One of the international agendas that is attracting attention is Lady Gaga's concert which will begin on May 18, 2025.
Responding to the situation, the Head of the Communication and Public Information Bureau of the Indonesian Ministry of Health, Aji Muhawarman, stated that the conditions for the spread of the virus in Indonesia were still under control. Based on monitoring until the 19th week of 2025, the situation is still within safe limits.
"In the midst of global dynamics, we want to convey that conditions in Indonesia remain safe. We continue to strengthen the surveillance of infectious diseases, including COVID-19, both through the centinel system and monitoring at the entrance to the country," Aji said in a press statement in Jakarta on Tuesday, May 20, quoted from the Ministry of Health's official website.
In Singapore itself, the spike in cases that occur is said to be still in a common seasonal pattern every year. The variant that is currently circulating in the country is a derivative of JN.1, which has so far shown no increase in the severity of symptoms or mortality rates.
Although there has been no tightening of access in and out of Indonesia, the Ministry of Health ensures that surveillance at international entrances remains tightened. The One Healthy Health Pass (SSHP) system is reactivated to monitor the flow of travelers from and abroad. The public is also asked to be more careful if they plan to travel to countries that are experiencing an increase in cases.
"We encourage the public to follow the development of the situation in the destination country, comply with the health protocols that apply there, and postpone travel if it is not urgent or in an unhealthy condition," added Aji.
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As a precaution, the Ministry of Health continues to remind the public of the importance of maintaining basic health protocols. Steps such as washing hands regularly, wearing masks when experiencing symptoms of cough and runny nose, and immediately checking with health facilities if experiencing symptoms of respiratory tract infection are still very relevant to implement.
In addition, Aji also again emphasized the importance of COVID-19 booster vaccination. This appeal is mainly aimed at people who have not received a booster injection, or those who are included in vulnerable groups such as the elderly and comorbidities sufferers.
"The public does not need to panic, but vigilance remains important. We ensure that early detection, reporting, and preparedness steps continue to be carried out to keep the national situation safe." he concluded.