Mayor Rahmad Mas'ud: PPKM Reduces Balikpapan COVID-19 Cases From 600 Cases To 80 Per Day

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JAKARTA - Balikpapan Mayor Rahmad Mas'ud revealed that PPKM level 4 which was extended up to 3 times had succeeded in reducing the rate of transmission of COVID-19.

"We got significant results from 600 cases per day to 80 cases per day," said Mayor Rahmad Mas'ud as quoted by Antara, Monday, August 24.

Initially implemented in mid-July, positive cases of COVID-19 reached 600 cases per day. The number was also suspected to be caused by the Delta variant of the corona virus. At that time, the death rate of positive patients had reached 40 cases per day, as a result of patients piling up in hospitals that treated COVID-19 patients.

The Kanujoso Djatiwibowo Regional General Hospital (RSKD) was even forced to refuse patients because they had exceeded the available capacity, where there were already patients being treated in the halls.

After being extended three times, explained the Mayor, until Sunday (22/8), the number of positive cases is now only 80 cases and 7 deaths. The hospital bed occupancy rate from more than 100 percent, is now 41 percent.

"These declining figures show that yesterday's efforts with PPKM were successful," said Mayor Rahmad.

Therefore, according to the Mayor of Balikpapan, if PPKM is ordered to continue, his party will comply with it, even though it is still subject to adjustments to Balikpapan conditions.

“The important thing is that we urge and keep reminding that if it is not important, it is better to stay at home. Limit movement. If you go out, obey the health protocols: wear a mask, wash your hands frequently with soap and running water, and keep your distance from other people," said the mayor.

On the other hand, as of 16.30 pm Monday (23/8) the Balikpapan City Government has not received any information regarding the status of the Implementation of Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) Level 4 whose validity period is scheduled to expire.