Health Office: Cases Of Acute Hepatitis In East Kalimantan Are Still Suspected

Acting (Plt) Head of the East Kalimantan Health Service (Kaltim) Masitah. (ANTARA/R'sya R)

SAMARINDA - Acting (Plt.) Head of the East Kalimantan Health Service (Kaltim) Masitah confirmed that the hepatitis case in East Kalimantan submitted by the Ministry of Health was an alleged case from his side's report.

"The hepatitis case in Samarinda that was submitted from the Ministry of Health is an alleged case that we have reported. However, this is still a suspicion because there are cases of dengue fever as well," said Masitah, quoted by Antara, Saturday, May 14.

For information, the Ministry of Health said there were 18 suspected cases of symptomatic hepatitis in Indonesia as of May 11, 2022.

A total of 18 suspected cases were spread, including 12 cases in DKI Jakarta, one case in Bangka Belitung, one case in West Java, one case in East Java, one case in East Kalimantan, one case in West Kalimantan and one case in North Sumatra.

Masitah emphasized that until now there are no cases of unknown acute hepatitis in Samarinda, but his party continues to carry out early vigilance.

"If there is a suspected case, we will carry out an epidemiological investigation as a precaution. So far, there is only one suspicion, there have been no reports from other hospitals," he said.

The patient, who is suspected of having hepatitis, is currently being treated at the Abdoel Wahab Sjahranie Regional General Hospital on Jalan Palang Merah, Samarinda.

The Kadinkes hopes that all people will be disciplined in a healthy lifestyle and maintain personal and environmental hygiene in a manner similar to the COVID-19 health protocol (prokes), namely washing hands with soap is mandatory.

"If possible, wash your hands with soap and warm water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom," he said.

Mothers caring for babies or toddlers are also advised to wash their hands frequently because the virus can be spread through baby vomit or when cleaning diapers.

"Consumption of nutritious and clean food. Do not eat outside because of dirty conditions from tables, plates, cutlery and glasses. Avoid swimming first in public places, avoid arenas (play ground) and if you go to the mall avoid holding hand railings, walls and that is often held by people," he said.