Answered Rizieq Shihab, Epidemiologist Called All Crowds Potential for Transmission

JAKARTA - University of Sebelas Maret epidemiologist, Tonang Dwi Ardyanto, said that all crowds that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic have the potential for transmission.

The statement was expressed by Tonang when answering the question of defendant Rizieq Shihab in the trial in the case of alleged crowd and violation of health protocol.

At first, Rizieq alluded to the crowd. Then, Rizieq asked whether there was a potential for COVID-19 transmission in every crowd that occurred.

Answering that question, Tonang called all the crowds of course potential contagion. But, until now, it can not be ascertained the occurrence of transmission.

"Is there any possibility, potential, or can it be certain that every crowd must have contagion?", asked Rizieq in a hearing at the East Jakarta District Court, Monday, May 17.

"Crowds have the potential for transmission from COVID-19 but no one can ever be sure that the crowd will definitely be transmitted", Tonang said.

With that potential, prevention efforts continue to be carried out. For example, implementing health protocols by maintaining distance, avoiding crowds, and wearing masks.

"We can't be sure, there must be an incident (contagion). So I think to make the best prevention", said Tonang.

In fact, Tonang reaffirmed that any crowd that occurs during a pandemic can potentially be contagious.

"Once again the crowd potential contagion? yes. Is there definitely someone infected? Of course, we can't be sure", he said.