Antisipasi Superflu, Komisi X DPR Minta Protokol Kesehatan Diterapkan Lagi di Sekolah

Be diligent in maintaining cleanliness, especially hand parts from the implementation of the COVID-19 health protocol (prokes). (Antara)

Member of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives Habib Syarief Muhammad, asked schools to re-implement health protocols in a disciplined manner in the educational environment, following the increase in cases of influenza A (H3N2) or known as superflu in a number of countries, including Indonesia.

"The increase in cases of superflu should not be taken lightly. Schools are public spaces with high intensity of interaction, so they have the potential to become a place of disease transmission. Therefore, anticipatory steps must be taken immediately so that the spread does not spread further," Habib Syarief told reporters, Friday, January 9.

Habib Syarief emphasized that children are a vulnerable group to infectious diseases, including superflu. According to him, the crowded school environment requires extra protection so that children's rights to learn in safe and healthy conditions are maintained.

Therefore, the PKB Legislator from the West Java District assessed that the implementation of basic health protocols such as the use of masks and the habit of washing hands must be re-accustomed in learning activities.

"There are still many schools that have hand washing facilities at the school entrance and classroom. This facility must really be used, not just a formality," said Habib Syarief.

Habib Syarief also encouraged schools to get students to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds using antiseptic soap before learning activities began. In addition, according to him, supervision from teachers and schools is considered important so that habits of living a clean and healthy life are really implemented consistently.

In addition to washing hands, the use of masks is also considered effective in reducing the risk of transmission of the virus. "Masks can help prevent the spread of viruses that cause fever, joint pain, and other symptoms of superflu," he said.

He also emphasized the importance of the role of parents in prevention efforts. According to Habib, students who are sick should not be forced to go to school.

"Parental awareness is very needed. If a child is sick, it is best to rest at home so as not to transmit it to other students," he said.

On the other hand, Habib Syarief assessed that socialization regarding superflu needs to be intensified, both for students, educators, and parents. According to him, proper education will help prevent panic while increasing vigilance.

"This is not to scare, but a protective step so that the learning process continues to be safe, comfortable, and healthy," he said.

As a medium-term step, Habib Syarief encouraged the Ministry of Health to consider an influenza vaccination program in schools.

"Vaccination is a form of prevention that has proven to be effective. We hope that there will be synergy across ministries so that the influenza vaccination program for students can be realized immediately," he concluded.