Superflu Spreads, the Government Says It is Not a Serious Health Threat

Illustration of community activities using masks during the COVID 19 pandemic (ANTARA)

MAKASSAR - The spread of superflu in a number of areas is confirmed not to be a serious threat to public health. The government insists that this condition is not comparable to the Covid-19 pandemic and is still classified as seasonal influenza.

This was conveyed by Deputy Minister of Health Benyamin Paulus Octavianus when reviewing the implementation of the Indonesian President's priority program in the field of health, especially the control of tuberculosis (TB), at the Ballaparang Health Center, Rappocini District, Makassar City, South Sulawesi, Tuesday, January 13.

According to the Minister of Health, to date, there are approximately 62 cases of super flu in Indonesia. The highest number of cases was found in East Java, namely 35 cases, while other areas recorded relatively low numbers.

"People don't need to worry too much. This is a seasonal flu that usually peaks in August to September. Since last December, the trend of cases has actually shown a decline," said Benyamin.

He explained that the term "superflu" refers to a variant of influenza with a slightly higher transmission rate, but is not a new disease and does not have the same level of virulence as Covid-19.

"This is still a common flu, it's just more contagious. It's not Covid-19, so people don't need to panic," he explained.

The Minister of Health also dismissed the notion that the super flu requires special treatment or complicated handling. Treatment is still carried out with flu medication according to medical advice, accompanied by adequate rest and the application of a healthy lifestyle.

"If you get a superflu, of course the medicine is adjusted. But basically, this is still influenza," he said.

However, the Ministry of Health continues to urge the public to increase vigilance without panic. The recommended steps include maintaining body resistance, implementing clean and healthy living behaviors (PHBS), and immediately going to a health facility if experiencing severe or prolonged symptoms.

The government ensures that the monitoring of the superflu case continues to be carried out on an ongoing basis and confirms that there is no indication of a public health emergency related to the phenomenon.