IDAI Highlights PTM Amid Rising COVID-19 Cases

ILLUSTRATION BETWEEN

JAKARTA - Pediatrician from the Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI) Prof. Aman Bhakti Pulungan reminded parents to be aware of the transmission of COVID-19 during face-to-face learning (PTM) at school.

This follows reports of deaths of children under the age of 12 in Singapore due to SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19.

"In Singapore, there have been children under the age of 12 who died from COVID-19. When they received treatment at the hospital, the child was accompanied by inflammation of the brain and seizures," said Aman Bhakti Pulungan, quoted by Antara, Tuesday, June 28.

He said the incident was proof that the COVID-19 pandemic was still sweeping the world, including what is now happening in Indonesia.

The former Chairperson of the Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI) highlighted the implementation of PTM in schools, because it was considered a risk of becoming a location for Corona Virus transmission.

"During face-to-face schools, children still have to wear masks, if they are sick don't go to school and if the child is unwell and sick, we must report it to the school and it is not recommended to open masks at school or eat and gather," he said.

In addition, learning hours at schools should be adjusted according to the capacity according to health protocols, Aman added.

Aman said that during July 2022 it is estimated that COVID-19 cases in Indonesia will continue to creep up, so parents need to increase their vigilance against COVID-19 transmission in children.

"During this holiday, a healthy holiday should not be infected. The pandemic is not over yet and the child could be exposed to COVID-19 and infected. So, if there are symptoms, please get tested," he said.

Safe also advised parents to comply with the implementation of child vaccinations according to the schedule so that the immune system increases.