Government Ensures Safety And Efficacy Of COVID-19 Vaccine For Community

JAKARTA - The government through the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) said it would continue to monitor the testing and assessment of the COVID-19 vaccine to ensure the safety, quality, and efficacy of vaccines in Indonesia.

"All vaccines that will be used in the COVID-19 vaccination program in Indonesia, of course, have gone through a long process and have received emergency use authorization for now as distribution permits and permits for use," said Head of BPOM Penny Lukito, quoted by Antara, Friday, August 13.

In the process of reviewing and approving the use of vaccines, BPOM cooperates with the Indonesian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ITAGI) and other relevant experts. BPOM also monitors vaccine quality with the National Food and Drug Testing Development Center (PPPOMN) before the vaccine is distributed.

"Until now, BPOM has given approval for use in an emergency period for six types of vaccines, in addition to the Sinovac vaccine, of course, there are AstraZeneca vaccines, Sinopharm vaccines, Moderna vaccines, and Pfizer Comirnaty vaccines," he said.

Furthermore, BPOM also continues to monitor the course of the vaccination program in Indonesia so that it runs smoothly and safely through quality control activities and monitoring of post-immunization referral events with the Ministry of Health and health offices throughout Indonesia.

"We carry out surveillance activities in distribution channels to health services, as well as testing techniques for quality control," he continued.

Therefore, BPOM urges the public to follow the available vaccination programs, comply with health protocols, and support the government's strategic steps in accelerating the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Besides vaccination, what should not be forgotten is staying disciplined on health protocols by implementing 3M, especially wearing masks, obeying mobility restrictions, and also washing our hands," said Penny.