JAKARTA - Entering the peak of the rainy season in early 2026, the family health challenge began to shift. Not just the usual flu, the risk of Acute Respiratory Tract Infection (ISPA) is now a serious concern for urban communities.
The latest data from the Ministry of Health until the end of 2025 shows a worrying figure, with a total of 13.37 million cases of ISPA reported nationally. This proves that respiratory health protection needs to be done more than just taking vitamins.
Environmental Factors Often Ignored
Many people think that rain will "wash" air pollution. However, the reality is not that simple. Pulmonary Specialist from the University of Indonesia, dr. Erlina Burhan, Sp.P(K), explained that high humidity during the rainy season is actually a fertile field for the growth of fungi and microorganisms.
"Changes in temperature and humidity make viruses such as influenza last longer in the air. Moreover, if there are remnants of the flood that are drying up, the microscopic dust is very easy to irritate the respiratory tract," explained dr. Erlina.
In fact, air quality monitoring data shows that PM2.5 concentrations in major cities such as Jakarta during the rainy season are often above the WHO safe threshold. These fine particles can still enter and get stuck inside the house, becoming an "invisible" threat to vulnerable family members.
Creating a "Safe Space" Inside the House
To reduce the risk of ISPA, dr. Erlina recommends preventive steps ranging from hand washing habits to ensuring that the air circulation in the house remains healthy so that it is not damp.
In line with the need for clean air, indoor air quality management (indoor air quality) is now a new lifestyle for health-conscious people. One practical step that can be taken is to bring air purification technology to family gathering points.
For example, smart devices such as the Levoit Core 300s are starting to be widely sought after for their effectiveness in mitigating pollutants in the room. With a three-stage filtration system - from Pre-Filter to True HEPA H13 - this device helps filter up to 99.97% of fine particles measuring 0.3 microns, which are often the trigger for ISPA.
Investment in Respiratory Health
Maintaining health in the midst of unpredictable weather requires extra effort. In addition to maintaining eating patterns and hygiene, ensuring that the air we breathe for 8-12 hours inside the house remains clean is a valuable long-term investment.
Simple efforts such as maintaining house cleanliness and supported by proper air filtration technology, are expected to provide a sense of calm and optimal protection for families throughout this rainy season.
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