COVID-19 Can Still Rise Due To Homecoming Even Though Public Antibodies Increase, Epidemiologist Says

Illustration (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - The proportion and levels of antibodies to SARS CoV-2 or COVID-19 in Indonesian society in March 2022 are known to have increased from December 2021.

This was revealed from the results of a survey conducted by the Faculty of Public Health (FKM) at the University of Indonesia (UI) with the Ministry of Health.

UI epidemiologist, Pandu Riono explained, in a survey in 21 districts/cities of origin and destination of going home, the proportion of the population had antibodies of 99.2 percent. This is an increase of 6.2 percent within three months.

Then, the level of antibody increase in the community in the survey area also increased. FKM UI takes the median or median antibody levels. In December 2021, the median antibody level was 434 units per milliliter. Then in March 2022, the median antibody level will be 5,698 units per milliliter.

"There is an increase in the proportion of the population who have these antibodies, which is quite large, which is 6.2 percent within three months. The most important thing is that there is an increase in antibody levels of more than 10 times. This is the basic capital for the population to be able to overcome the possibility of infection. ," said Pandu in a virtual press conference, Wednesday, April 20.

From the increase in antibodies based on the results of this survey, will COVID-19 cases still have the potential to increase because many people carry out high mobility such as going home for Eid?

Pandu answered that the possibility still exists even though the community's antibodies are already high. Remembering, people don't just go back to their hometowns to stay in touch, but also relax in tourist areas.

Therefore, continued Pandu, the high mobility during the homecoming season must be accompanied by an increase in full-dose vaccination coverage plus a third or booster dose.

"Vaccination is important because from this survey we know that having a booster for travelers will give them greater confidence because the antibodies are quite safe, we can rely on them to reduce the risk (increase in cases)," said Pandu.

In addition, Pandu reminded the public to continue to carry out health protocols. "We still have to encourage people to comply with health protocols to stay healthy during the trip so as to reduce the risk of transmission because the pandemic is not over yet," he added.