JAKARTA, JAKTIMES.COM- The handling of COVID-19 in the world and Indonesia has become more controlled. Data shows a decline in daily cases worldwide from the beginning of 2023 until June 8, 2023.
Positive cases have decreased by 97%, deaths have decreased by 95%, and active cases have decreased by 4%. The average percentage of recovery cases worldwide in 2023 is 96%.
Nationally, the indicators of the pandemic have shown a decrease in positive cases in Indonesia since the beginning of 2023. From January 1 to June 8, 2023, positive cases have decreased by 31% to 254 cases from 366 cases. The average percentage of recovery cases in Indonesia is currently 97.47%, which is the same as at the beginning of 2023, and the death rate has decreased by 43%. Furthermore, the coverage of complete vaccine doses is currently at 74.53%, with the first booster dose at 37.93% and the second booster dose at 1.73%. The vaccination coverage is also accompanied by the results of a serosurvey indicating high coverage and immunity among the Indonesian population, reaching 99% as of January 2023.
Professor Wiku Adisasmito, the spokesperson for COVID-19 handling, stated that these conditions are positive signs, especially with the World Health Organization lifting the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This is an appropriate moment to adjust the health protocol policies for domestic and international travelers, large-scale activities, and public facilities in order to maximize economic improvement in Indonesia.
“To maximize Indonesia’s recovery and the transition to an endemic phase, the COVID-19 Task Force has relaxed the policies by issuing Circular Letter No. 1 of 2023 on Health Protocols during the Endemic Transition Period to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19,” said Wiku.
Wiku Adisasmito added that the latest circular letter also revokes Circular Letter No. 24/2022 on domestic travelers, Circular Letter No. 25/2022 on international travelers, Circular Letter No. 20/2022 on large-scale activities, and Circular Letter No. 19/2021 on the Task Force in Public Facilities.
For information, the latest circular letter generally regulates health protocols for all individuals who intend to travel domestically and internationally, participate in large-scale activities, or engage in activities at public facilities, with the aim of personal protection and responsibility to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The recommendations are as follows:
First, continue to receive COVID-19 vaccination, including the second booster dose, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with comorbidities.
Second, healthy individuals without the risk of COVID-19 transmission are allowed to not wear masks but are encouraged to wear masks properly when they are unwell or at risk of COVID-19 transmission.
Third, it is recommended to carry hand sanitizers or use soap and running water to wash hands to avoid the virus.
Fourth, it is advised to maintain distance for individuals who are unwell or at risk of contracting or transmitting COVID-19.
Lastly, it is recommended to continue using the SATUSEHAT application to monitor personal health.
Furthermore, all managers and operators of transportation facilities, public facilities, and large-scale activities, along with local governments, are encouraged to continue protecting the public through preventive and promotive efforts. They should also maintain supervision, guidance, regulation, and enforcement of health protocols to control the transmission of COVID-19.
Finally, the spokesperson for COVID-19 handling stated that although the pandemic has not yet been lifted by the WHO, the Indonesian population must be prepared for the transition to an endemic phase with new health protocols, emphasizing personal and collective responsibility to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“Many countries have gained control over COVID-19, resulting in a decline in cases. Therefore, the WHO may consider determining the end of the pandemic. Currently, the responsibility of the community during the transition to an endemic phase is crucial in protecting and preventing the transmission of COVID-19,” Wiku concluded (Wan)
