East Kalimantan Strengthens Health Workers To Handle Venomous Snakebites

Ria Sartika    Sunday, April 05, 2026    Comment   

East Kalimantan Strengthens Health Workers To Handle Venomous Snakebites

East Kalimantan strengthens healthcare capacity to handle venomous snakebites using WHO standards, ensuring antivenom availability across hospitals. (Illustration)

East Kalimantan Strengthens Healthcare Response To Snakebite Emergencies With WHO Standards

Samarinda — The East Kalimantan Provincial Health Office is strengthening the capacity of healthcare workers and volunteers to handle emergency cases caused by venomous snakebites. This effort is carried out through the implementation of standardized treatment protocols from the World Health Organization to ensure faster and more accurate patient care.

Head of the East Kalimantan Health Office, Jaya Mualimin, confirmed that antivenom stocks are currently secure and centrally available at the provincial level.

“We ensure that antivenom stock is fully available at the Health Office, allowing all hospitals in East Kalimantan to request it immediately for systemic cases after consultation,” he said in Samarinda on Saturday.

Cross-Agency Collaboration And National Expertise

The initiative is conducted in collaboration with the Samarinda Fire and Rescue Department through a hybrid training program. It also features clinical toxicology expert from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, Tri Maharani.

A real case study from RSUD Abdoel Wahab Sjahranie was highlighted during the session. In late March, the hospital successfully treated a patient suffering from a severe neurotoxic snakebite, resulting in full recovery without permanent disability.

According to Jaya, the success was driven by strict adherence to medical standards, including immobilization, airway management, and timely administration of antivenom.

“The patient was even able to be weaned off a ventilator within two days, showing how critical proper procedures are,” he explained.

Antivenom Availability And Government Support

East Kalimantan currently relies on several specific antivenoms, including Polineuro Thailand, Polihemato Thailand, and Seasnake Australia. All supplies are provided as grants from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia.

This availability plays a vital role in the regional referral system, ensuring that patients with severe conditions receive timely and effective treatment.

Public Education: Stay Calm And Avoid Myths

The Health Office also urges the public to remain calm when dealing with snakebite incidents. Proper first aid can significantly impact survival outcomes.

Tri Maharani emphasized that the first step is to minimize movement (immobilization), as venom spreads through the lymphatic system rather than the bloodstream.

“Common practices such as tightly tying the affected area, sucking the wound, or pouring hot water on it are dangerous myths and strictly discouraged,” she said.

She further advised the public to seek immediate medical attention, especially if symptoms such as drooping eyelids, difficulty swallowing, or gum bleeding occur.

FAQ

1. What should you do if bitten by a snake?
Stay calm, immobilize the affected area, and seek immediate medical help.

2. Does snake venom spread through the bloodstream?
No, it primarily spreads through the lymphatic system.

3. Is it safe to suck out snake venom?
No, it is a harmful myth and should not be done.

4. Is antivenom available in East Kalimantan?
Yes, the Health Office ensures sufficient and accessible stock for hospitals.

5. When should you go to the hospital after a snakebite?
Immediately, especially if symptoms like weakness, difficulty breathing, or bleeding appear.

East Kalimantan Health Office Evaluates Accident Referral System Ahead of Eid Return Flow

Saputra Berry    Sunday, March 29, 2026    Comment   

East Kalimantan Health Office Evaluates Accident Referral System Ahead of Eid Return Flow

East Kalimantan evaluates its traffic accident referral system to prevent hospital overcrowding and improve emergency care during the Eid return travel surge.

Samarinda – The Health Office of East Kalimantan is tightening its evaluation of the referral system for traffic accident victims, especially ahead of the peak Eid homecoming return flow, which is known for a surge in incidents.

Head of the East Kalimantan Health Office, Jaya Mualimin, emphasized the importance of rapid coordination between hospitals to prevent patient overcrowding at a single medical facility.

“If a hospital receives the first patient, it must immediately communicate with other hospitals so victims can be redirected to the nearest available facility,” he said in Samarinda on Saturday.

Referral System Evaluation to Anticipate Patient Surges

This evaluation is being conducted in collaboration with hospital management across the region. The goal is to maintain the quality of emergency services, especially during mass traffic accidents.

According to Jaya, overcrowding at a single hospital can significantly impact the effectiveness of medical treatment and reduce victims’ chances of survival.

“If emergency services are not optimal, it can trigger negative public perception. That’s what we want to avoid,” he explained.

Strong Coordination Between Hospitals Is Key

The East Kalimantan Health Office stressed that communication between healthcare facilities must be fast, accurate, and continuous.

Primary healthcare units are required to ensure capacity readiness before accepting a large influx of emergency patients. The system is designed to evenly distribute patients and ensure faster treatment.

This policy was also based on findings from a previous accident case at a regional public hospital in Samarinda, where minor miscommunication occurred.

“Although there was some coordination issue, all victims were successfully evacuated and treated,” Jaya noted.

Preparing for the Eid Return Flow

To anticipate the return travel period, the Health Office has ensured that all healthcare facilities—from clinics to emergency units—are on full alert.

This effort involves multiple agencies, including:

• Regional Police of East Kalimantan

• Transportation Agency

• Toll road operators

Collaboration is reflected through the establishment of integrated health posts at accident-prone locations.

“All stakeholders are involved to ensure fast and coordinated responses in the field,” he added.

Main Focus: Safety and Rapid Response

With increased mobility during Eid, the risk of traffic accidents also rises. Therefore, an effective referral system plays a crucial role in saving lives.

The Health Office hopes this evaluation will minimize field constraints and ensure that every victim receives prompt and appropriate medical care.

FAQ

1. Why is the hospital referral system being evaluated?
To prevent overcrowding at a single hospital during mass accidents, which can delay treatment and increase fatality risks.

2. What is the main goal of this policy?
To ensure balanced patient distribution so medical services remain effective and responsive.

3. Which agencies are involved in this effort?
The Health Office, Police, Transportation Agency, and toll road operators.

4. When do traffic accident risks typically increase?
During Eid homecoming and return travel periods due to higher public mobility.

5. What happens if hospitals fail to coordinate?
It can lead to delayed treatment and reduced quality of emergency care.

Balikpapan Urges Residents To Self-Isolate As Measles Cases Reach 200

Ria Sartika    Friday, March 27, 2026    Comment   

Balikpapan Urges Residents To Self-Isolate As Measles Cases Reach 200

Measles cases in Balikpapan reach 200. Authorities urge residents to self-isolate for two weeks to prevent further spread after Eid. (Illustration image)

Balikpapan — The Balikpapan City Government in East Kalimantan is urging residents to remain vigilant following a spike in suspected measles cases, which have now reached around 200.

Head of the Balikpapan Health Office, Alwiati, emphasized that self-isolation for approximately two weeks is a key step to curb the spread of the disease.

“Self-isolation is crucial to break the chain of measles transmission, especially amid high community mobility after Eid,” she said on Friday.

According to her, self-isolation is one of the most effective measures to prevent transmission, particularly within households and surrounding communities. Patients will still receive treatment based on their individual conditions.

Measles Spreads Easily Through The Air

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It most commonly affects children who have not received complete immunization.

However, adults with weakened immune systems are also at risk.

Alwiati warned the public not to underestimate measles. While some cases may appear mild, the disease can spread rapidly, especially among those without immunity.

Not Yet Classified As Endemic

Most suspected cases have been identified through monitoring at healthcare facilities. Despite the increase, Balikpapan has not been classified as a measles-endemic area.

This means Outbreak Response Immunization (ORI) from the central government has not yet been deemed necessary.

Catch-Up Immunization Program Intensified

To prevent further spread, the Health Office is intensifying its catch-up immunization program for children who have not completed their measles vaccination.

The program targets vulnerable groups at higher risk of severe symptoms if infected.

Public education on clean and healthy living habits is also being strengthened.

Post-Eid Habits Under Scrutiny

One key concern is community behavior during Eid gatherings, such as touching or kissing babies without washing hands.

These habits can increase the risk of transmission, as individuals may carry the virus unknowingly.

Official Circular Issued

The Health Office has issued an official circular urging healthcare facilities and the public to enhance early detection and accelerate case handling.

Healthcare workers are instructed to actively monitor and trace potential transmission in affected areas.

Free Treatment And Public Advisory

The government has ensured that measles treatment is available free of charge at healthcare facilities.

Patients are advised to get adequate rest and avoid contact with others during recovery.

While the situation requires caution, residents are urged to stay calm. Simple preventive steps such as handwashing, maintaining cleanliness, and completing children’s immunization remain key.

With a combination of self-isolation, catch-up immunization, and increased public awareness, authorities hope to control the spread of measles without entering an emergency phase.

FAQ

Q: What is measles?
A: Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air via coughing or sneezing.

Q: How long should measles patients self-isolate?
A: Around 14 days or until fully recovered.

Q: Who is most at risk?
A: Unvaccinated children and individuals with weak immune systems.

Q: Is measles dangerous?
A: Yes, especially for vulnerable groups if not properly treated.

Q: How can measles be prevented?
A: Through vaccination, proper hygiene, handwashing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

Travel and Fast Safely Without GERD Discomfort, Advice From a Specialist

Ria Sartika    Tuesday, March 17, 2026    Comment   

Travel and Fast Safely Without GERD Discomfort, Advice From a Specialist

Learn safe tips to manage GERD during traveling and fasting from Dr. Hasan Maulahela. Practical steps to stay comfortable without acid reflux issues on the road.

Going home for Eid (mudik) is an eagerly awaited moment, but for travelers with digestive issues, especially GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), long trips while fasting can be challenging.

Dr. Hasan Maulahela, Sp.P.D, Subsp. G.E.H. (K), an internal medicine specialist with a subspecialty in gastroenterology and hepatology from the University of Indonesia, emphasizes the importance of proper management when GERD symptoms appear on the road.

“If you experience GERD symptoms while traveling and fasting, follow these steps to relieve them,” he said in an official statement received Tuesday.

Steps to Relieve GERD While Traveling and Fasting

1. Loosen Your Clothing
   Pressure from tight belts or clothing can worsen acid reflux. Loosen up to prevent stomach acid from rising.

2. Sit Upright
   Avoid slouching or curling up. If possible, lean back with your head and chest higher than your stomach. Gravity helps keep stomach acid down.

3. Deep Breathing
   Inhale through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. This relaxes digestive muscles and reduces panic that can trigger excess stomach acid.

If symptoms persist, especially severe heartburn, vomiting, or shortness of breath, break your fast with warm water and take medication if necessary. Do not force yourself to continue fasting.

Avoid GERD-Triggering Foods

GERD patients should avoid foods and drinks that can trigger acid reflux, such as spicy, fatty, or highly caffeinated items. If symptoms do not improve, visit the nearest emergency unit or hospital immediately.

GERD During Travel

GERD is a digestive disorder where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest, nausea, vomiting, or even breathing difficulties. Travel-related triggers include:

• Rushing meals during pre-dawn (sahur) or iftar while traveling.

• Consuming spicy, fatty foods or excessive caffeinated drinks.

• Sitting too long, putting pressure on the stomach.

• Stress and fatigue.

Safe Fasting Tips for GERD Patients During Travel

1. Always eat sahur even while traveling. Choose complex carbohydrates and high-fiber foods.

2. Avoid overeating at iftar; small frequent meals are better than a single large meal.

3. Do not lie down immediately after eating; wait at least 3 hours.

4. Manage stress and rest regularly at rest areas.

With proper preparation and attention to symptoms, you can travel safely and comfortably during fasting, even with GERD.

Heart Procedure Without Kidney Damage? This New Ultra-Low Contrast Technique Changes the Game

Saputra Berry    Sunday, February 08, 2026    Comment   

Heart Procedure Without Kidney Damage? This New Ultra-Low Contrast Technique Changes the Game

Heart Procedure Without Kidney Damage? This New Ultra-Low Contrast Technique Changes the Game.

What if fixing a blocked heart artery didn’t have to put your kidneys at risk? Sounds impossible, right? Turns out, it’s not. A new medical approach called Ultra Low Contrast PCI is quietly changing how doctors treat high-risk heart patients—and it’s a big deal.

Dr. Arwin Saleh Mangkuanom, an interventional cardiology consultant, says this technique is a breakthrough for patients who suffer from heart disease and kidney problems at the same time, a combo that’s more common than many people realize.

The Hidden Risk Behind Life-Saving Heart Procedures

For most heart patients, opening a blocked artery through a PCI procedure can be life-saving. The problem? Traditional PCI relies heavily on contrast dye so doctors can see blood vessels clearly on X-ray.

That contrast dye can be dangerous for patients with weak kidneys.

“Globally, about one in three heart patients also has kidney impairment,” Dr. Arwin explained. “If their kidney filtration rate is very low, large amounts of contrast can seriously worsen kidney function.”

In standard PCI procedures, doctors may use up to 100 cc of contrast dye. But for patients with severe kidney disease, safe levels should ideally stay below 30 cc, depending on their eGFR score.

How Ultra Low Contrast PCI Works

This is where Ultra Low Contrast PCI (ULC PCI) steps in.

Instead of relying on dye, doctors use Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)—a high-tech imaging tool that lets them see the artery from the inside using sound waves. The result? Real-time, ultra-detailed images without flooding the body with contrast.

“With IVUS, we can guide the wire and balloon with extreme precision,” said Dr. Arwin. “Contrast is only used at the very end, and in very tiny amounts, just to confirm the final result.”

The accuracy is impressive, but it also requires advanced skills and experience, which is why the technique isn’t yet widely available.

Who Really Needs This Procedure?

ULC PCI isn’t for everyone—but for certain patients, it can be life-changing. Doctors strongly recommend it for patients with:

• Severe kidney impairment (eGFR below 30)

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

• History of kidney failure after severe infection, shock, or post-COVID complications

• Coronary artery tears from heart attacks or previous procedures

• Cardiogenic shock or severely weakened heart function

• High risk of contrast-induced kidney injury based on the Mehran Score

“Our main goal is simple,” Dr. Arwin emphasized. “Treat the heart effectively without sacrificing kidney health.”

A Growing Trend in Indonesia

While Ultra Low Contrast PCI is still rare in Indonesia, Siloam Hospitals TB Simatupang has emerged as one of the early adopters and developers of this technique.

As long as heart interventions still depend on X-ray imaging—and kidney disease has no definitive cure—the demand for safer procedures like ULC PCI is expected to rise.

“The hope is to establish a national standard, so more hospitals can offer this technique safely and consistently,” Dr. Arwin said.

For patients caught between heart disease and kidney risk, this innovation isn’t just medical progress—it’s a new second chance.

Why the Nipah Virus Is Named After a Malay Village, Not India

Ria Sartika    Friday, February 06, 2026    Comment   

Why the Nipah Virus Is Named After a Malay Village, Not India

Why the Nipah Virus Is Named After a Malay Village, Not India.

The Nipah virus is once again grabbing global attention as new cases emerge in India. But here’s a surprising fact many people don’t know: the name “Nipah” doesn’t come from India at all. Its roots trace back to a small Malay village in Malaysia.

This explanation comes from Prof. Tjandra Yoga Aditama, an Adjunct Professor at Griffith University, who shared the real story behind the virus’s name in an official statement confirmed in Jakarta.

“People around the world are closely watching the development of Nipah virus cases in India. But the word ‘Nipah’ itself is not Indian. It’s a Malay term that we are very familiar with,” Prof. Tjandra explained.

The First Nipah Virus Cases Didn’t Start in India

Why the Nipah Virus Is Named After a Malay Village, Not India.

According to detailed epidemiological investigations, the first cluster of Nipah virus cases appeared in late September 1998, near Ipoh City in Perak, Malaysia.

A second cluster followed shortly after, detected near Sikamat in Negeri Sembilan between December 1998 and January 1999. At that time, doctors had no idea they were dealing with a new virus.

“In the early stages, the disease wasn’t recognized at all. It was initially suspected to be Japanese Encephalitis, because patients showed inflammation of the brain,” said Prof. Tjandra.

From Misdiagnosis to Major Outbreak

The confusion didn’t stop there. Because of similar symptoms and a related origin, the illness was later thought to be Hendra virus disease. This assumption was even documented in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) published in April 1999 under the title Outbreak of Hendra-Like Virus—Malaysia and Singapore, 1998–1999.

Everything changed when a third and much larger outbreak hit Sungai Nipah Village and Bukit Pelandok, in the Port Dickson area of Negeri Sembilan, starting in December 1998.

The situation became so serious that local authorities imposed a lockdown on Sungai Nipah Village to stop the spread.

How Sungai Nipah Gave the Virus Its Name

Why the Nipah Virus Is Named After a Malay Village, Not India.

It was from intensive research conducted in Sungai Nipah Village that scientists finally confirmed they were facing a new virus never identified before.

That’s when the name “Nipah virus” was officially adopted—directly taken from the village where the virus was first scientifically identified.

“The WHO Southeast Asia Regional Office book Nipah Virus Infection published in 2008 clearly states that the virus was named after the Malaysian village where it was discovered,” said Prof. Tjandra, a former Director of Communicable Diseases at WHO Southeast Asia.

Part of a Dangerous Virus Family

Prof. Tjandra added that the disease was initially mistaken for Japanese Encephalitis because both cause encephalitis, or brain inflammation. It was also confused with Hendra virus due to similar clinical features and close viral origins.

Eventually, Nipah virus and Hendra virus were grouped into a new genus called Henipavirus—a combination of Hendra and Nipah. This genus belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, known for viruses that can cause severe and deadly outbreaks.

Why This Story Matters Today

Understanding the origin of the Nipah virus isn’t just medical trivia. It highlights how zoonotic diseases—infections that jump from animals to humans—can emerge quietly and spread fast.

The lesson is clear: staying informed helps the public stay calm, alert, and prepared. Because when it comes to viruses like Nipah, history has shown that small villages can change global health forever.

InaVac Gets Emergency Approval From BPOM

Redaksi    Thursday, November 10, 2022    Comment   

InaVac Gets Emergency Approval From BPOM

InaVac Gets Emergency Approval From BPOM.

Surabaya - The Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) has issued emergency use authorization (EUA) for InaVac, a COVID-19 vaccine developed by researchers from Airlangga University (Unair).

"InaVac has obtained emergency use authorization from BPOM and will be mass-produced," the rector of Unair, Prof. Moh. Nasih, said on the sidelines of the campus' dies natalis (anniversary) on Wednesday .

The vaccine, which can be used to prevent a COVID-19 infection, has been made using an inactivated virus, which means, a virus that cannot reproduce and cause disease.

InaVac has been approved for use as a primary vaccine for people aged 18 and above for boosting immunity levels.

According to Nasih, the vaccine was developed as part of an effort by the university to significantly contribute to and impact the health sector.

Following the provision of EUA from BPOM, he expressed his gratitude to various stakeholders that have supported the development of the vaccine.

"Thank you to the Ministry of Health for providing support in the form of large amounts of funding; the provincial government has also provided extraordinary support," he remarked.

"Dr. Soetomo Hospital has also been very supportive. Equally important has been the role of Unair researchers who worked hard for this," he added.

Former state-owned enterprises minister Dahlan Iskan also expressed his pleasure over the completion of the domestically-made COVID-19 vaccine.

"I am happy because Unair has processed this vaccine to completion. How this vaccine was successfully launched, how to find people who want to undergo the vaccine. Finding people who are willing to be clinically tested is extremely difficult.. but Unair managed to finish it," he said.

It is hoped that after InaVac, more vaccines will be produced through continued research and development so that they can answer future challenges and problems.

Unair is currently developing a booster vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine for children.

"The news about vaccines has been very encouraging; hopefully, later booster vaccines and children can be produced," he said.

Pewarta : Yashinta Difa Pramudyani/Antara

Editor : Yakop

Association Suggests BPOM To Mandate Industry To Self-inspect Products

Redaksi    Sunday, October 30, 2022    Comment   

Association Suggests BPOM To Mandate Industry To Self-inspect Products

Illustration - The Association of Indonesian Doctors for the Development of Traditional and Herbal Medicine (PDPOTJI) recommends the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) mandate industries to self-inspect their products in terms of safety from diethylene glycol contamination. (Pixabay)

Jakarta - The Association of Indonesian Doctors for the Development of Traditional and Herbal Medicine (PDPOTJI) has recommended that BPOM mandate pharmaceutical industries to independently conduct the safety examination of their products including the solvents.

"The pharmaceutical industries are also requested to carry out periodic self-examinations on the finished products," Chairperson of PDPOTJI, Inggrid Tania, said in the webinar on "The Science, Safety & Efficacy of Traditional Herbal Potions (Jamu) for Children & Adults" here on Sunday.

She suggested that the independent examination of products comply with the inspection standards set by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) to detect the presence of diethylene glycol contamination in syrup medicinal products.

According to her, a similar recommendation has also been given by Pakistan's food and drug authority in responding to the cases of kidney failure in Gambia, West Africa, and Indonesia.

"Giving warnings to every industry, society and health workers. Other countries which have not reported cases of acute kidney failure have taken anticipatory steps," she said.

In Indonesia, the number of kidney failure cases in children reached 269 on October 26, 2022. The World Health Organization (WHO) has determined this as an epidemic of poisoning, as the one in Gambia.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health suspected that the investigation of kidney failure causes has led to drug poisoning.

Tania suggested that the government provide alternatives such as the administration of puyer, or medicines in the form of powder, or suppositoria, a medication that is inserted through the anus.

"For example, Paracetamol is ground into powder and given to children. The taste is bitter even though sugar is added," she said.

However, she cautioned that not all drugs can be ground into puyer, such as mixing Paracetamol and decongestant.

PDPOTJI also issued a recommendation for safe herbal potions for children as an alternative to fever treatment and cold and cough relievers.

This herbal concoction has a relatively good taste and is cheap and its ingredients are easy to find, Tania informed.

Oleh : Lia S, Kenzu/Antara

Editor : Yakop

Indonesia Records 1,005 Additional Active COVID-19 Cases

Redaksi    Saturday, October 29, 2022    Comment   

Indonesia Records 1,005 Additional Active COVID-19 Cases

Indonesia Records 1,005 Additional Active COVID-19 Cases.

Jakarta - The number of active COVID-19 cases in Indonesia increased by 1,005 on Saturday to touch 23,748, the COVID-19 Handling Task Force reported.

With 3,141 fresh infections added per day, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases recorded in the country since March 2020 has reached 6,487,905.

The number of deaths climbed by 27 on Saturday, bringing the national death toll from the virus to 158,571.

Meanwhile, the number of recoveries increased by 2,109 to bring the total count to 6,305.586 nationwide.

Jakarta contributed the highest number of recoveries on Saturday at 852, followed by East Java (336), Banten (270), West Java (202), and Central Java (101).

Jakarta also contributed the most additional active cases at 1,041, followed by East Java (473), West Java (401), Central Java (246), and Banten (234).

Meanwhile, the highest number of deaths was recorded in Central Java at 8, followed by East Java (4), Jakarta (3), and South Sulawesi (3).

According to the task force, the total number of suspected patients reached 4,985 and the number of specimens examined touched 49,982 on Saturday.

As the COVID-19 pandemic has shown no signs of abating, the government has called on the public to follow the health protocols, including wearing masks and washing hands with running water.

Earlier, the Health Ministry appealed to citizens to get the booster vaccine soon as part of preparations for the COVID-19 endemic phase. 

Oleh : Martha HM, Suharto

Editor : Yakop

Recorded 1,210 Additional Active Of Active Infections To 22,743 In Indonesia

Redaksi    Friday, October 28, 2022    Comment   

Recorded 1,210 Additional Active Of Active Infections To 22,743 In Indonesia

Recorded 1,210 Additional Active Of Active Infections To 22,743 In Indonesia.

Jakarta - The COVID-19 Handling Task Force recorded 1,210 additional active cases in the country on Friday, taking the total tally of active infections to 22,743.

Meanwhile, the total number of suspected patients examined in the country reached 4,816.

Jakarta contributed the largest number of new cases on Friday at 1,007, followed by West Java (448 cases), East Java (391), Central Java (257), and Banten (222).

With 3,015 fresh infections added per day, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases recorded in the country since March 2020 has reached 6,484,764.

The figure is based on the daily testing of 59,933 specimens at laboratories and medical facilities across Indonesia.

Meanwhile, the number of recoveries also increased by 1,783 on Friday to bring the total count to 6,303,477 nationwide.

The highest recovery rate was recorded in Jakarta at 714, followed by East Java (367), West Java (220), and Central Java (145).

Further, the number of deaths climbed by 22 on Friday, bringing the national death toll from the virus to 158,544.

Of the latest deaths, seven were reported from Central Java; four from East Java; two from East Kalimantan and DI Yogyakarta each; and one from West Java, Bali, Central Sulawesi, West Nusa Tenggara, Lampung, and Bangka Belitung each.

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 8.96 percent, with the number of people using the PCR and antigen method pegged at 26.19 percent.

The Health Ministry reminded that 6,903 sequences of BA.4 subvariants have been reported through GSAID so far. The reports have come from 58 countries, with the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, South Africa, and Denmark accounting for the most reports.

It also urged people to be cautious of the spread of new variants of COVID-19 by always adhering to health protocols and wearing masks. 

Oleh : Fitra Ashari, Mecca Yumna/Antara

Editor : Yakop

Mental Health Problems Must Be Detected Early To Keep Them From Worsening

Redaksi    Friday, October 28, 2022    Comment   

Mental Health Problems Must Be Detected Early To Keep Them From Worsening

Mental Health Problems Must Be Detected Early To Keep Them From Worsening.

Jakarta - Mental health problems must be detected early to keep them from worsening, according to an official from the Jakarta Health Office.

"Mental health is often not visible; thus, we need to be active to detect (problems),” acting head of the non-communicable disease, mental health, and substance abuse section of the office, Ngabila Salama, said at a World Mental Health Day commemoration event on Friday.

According to her, collaboration between various stakeholders is needed to raise awareness about the need for early detection of mental health problems, especially in terms of conducting creative and massive promotions.

“So, we have to campaign more often so that when people or children have mild disorders such as getting tired quickly, losing interest, feeling lazy to go to work, lazy to go to school, experiencing palpitations, finding it hard to sleep, these early symptoms can be diagnosed immediately; take them to the experts, treat them immediately," she expounded.

She said that to support early detection, the Jakarta Health Office has integrated the E-Soul and Mental Friend services with the JaKi (Jakarta Kini) application.

Adults can carry out screening using the E-Soul service, she informed. While using the service, people are required to answer questions honestly.

If the results of the screening show that they have mental health problems, they can consult clinical psychologists online through the Mental Friend service.

"Our clinical psychologists at community health centers are ready to help," Salama affirmed.

She informed that currently, there are 23 community health centers in subdistricts that are offering psychological services. She expressed the hope that in the future, all community health centers in Jakarta will offer the services.

"We are currently making a circular for strengthening so that 44 subdistricts have clinical psychologists," she added.

The Health Office is also developing an E-Soul service for children, she said.

Oleh : Suci Nurhaliza, Raka Adji/Antara

Editor : Yakop

Asked Residents To Remain Vigilant To Prevent The Transmission Of The Xbb Sub-Variant Of Covid-19

Redaksi    Friday, October 28, 2022    Comment   

Asked Residents To Remain Vigilant To Prevent The Transmission Of The Xbb Sub-Variant Of Covid-19

Asked Residents To Remain Vigilant To Prevent The Transmission Of The Xbb Sub-Variant Of Covid-19.

Madiun, East Java - East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has asked residents to remain vigilant and strictly follow health protocols to prevent the transmission of the XBB sub-variant of COVID-19, following the detection of one case in the province.

"I have asked the head of the East Java Health Office, the Institute of Tropical Disease of Airlangga University, and following the information from Mr. Health Minister on Wednesday (October 26, 2022) that one case of the Omicron XBB sub-variant has been (found) in East Java," Parawansa informed here on Friday.

The results of genomic sequencing have shown one confirmed case of the XBB sub-variant in the province as of Friday, with the patient, a 29-year-old woman, getting infected outside East Java, she said.

The governor informed that she had ordered the East Java Provincial Health Office and the East Java COVID-19 Task Force to keep monitoring and carrying out tracing of close contacts of the patient. This is because the XBB sub-variant has a quick transmission rate.

"The patient had mild symptoms. All close contacts have been tested and the results are negative. The patient has now been declared recovered or negative," she said.

The XBB sub-variant is reported to have caused a significant spike in cases in several countries, especially Singapore, she noted. Therefore, she appealed to all East Java residents to remain calm and not panic.

She said she expects people to keep maintaining and tightening the health protocols as a form of self- and family protection.

Besides calling for COVID-19 vaccinations, she instructed all hospitals, especially those under the authority of the East Java provincial government, to increase vigilance. Although COVID-19 cases in East Java are low, hospitals must not lose their grip on preparedness, Parawansa said.

Oleh : Louis S, Kenzu

Editor : Yakop

AKI: Indonesia To Receive 200 Antidote Vials From Japan

Redaksi    Thursday, October 27, 2022    Comment   

AKI: Indonesia To Receive 200 Antidote Vials From Japan

AKI: Indonesia To Receive 200 Antidote Vials From Japan.

Jakarta - A pharmaceutical company from Japan, Takeda, has donated 200 vials of acute kidney injury (AKI) antidote, Fomepizole, to Indonesia, Health Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Syahril informed at a press conference here on Thursday.

“The drug will arrive next week. We will directly distribute it to government hospitals,” he said.

In addition to the donation from Japan, 70 vials of Fomepizole are also scheduled to arrive from Singapore.

The government has provided Fomepizole to the Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM). The condition of 10 out of 11 AKI patients at the hospital has been reported to have improved after they were administered the antidote.

Laboratory tests showed that the ethylene glycol levels in the 10 child patients were no longer detectable. The patients also managed to urinate after receiving the antidote.

Syahril said that the antidote is being provided for free by the government to patients who developed acute kidney injury after consuming syrup medicines that were suspected to be contaminated with ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol.

"This medicine (Fomepizole) is being provided completely free of charge to patients as part of the government's responsibility to handle cases of acute kidney injury," he affirmed.

As of October 26, 2022, the Ministry of Health has recorded 269 cases of atypical progressive acute kidney injury in Indonesia.

The regions with the highest number of cases are Jakarta, with 57 cases, followed by West Java (36), Aceh (30), East Java (25), and West Sumatra (19).

Besides Japan, the government is importing the antidote from Singapore, Australia, and the United States.

The government is currently still collecting data on acute kidney injury cases in all districts and cities in collaboration with local health offices, hospitals, and the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI).

Oleh : Sugiharto Purnama, Raka Adji/Antara

Editor : Yakop

US Sends More Vaccines To Boost Indonesia's COVID Vaccination Drive

Redaksi    Thursday, October 27, 2022    Comment   

US Sends More Vaccines To Boost Indonesia's COVID Vaccination Drive

US Sends More Vaccines To Boost Indonesia's COVID Vaccination Drive.

Jakarta - The United States this week shipped more than five million doses of donated Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to boost the vaccination drive against the novel coronavirus disease in Indonesia.

With the latest shipment, the United States had so far donated a total of 40.8 million doses to Indonesia and more than 620 million vaccines to more than 120 countries in each region of the world, the US Embassy in Jakarta said in a statement released on Thursday.

"I congratulate the Indonesian government on successfully fully vaccinating 73 percent of its population with COVID-19 vaccine," the United States Ambassador to Indonesia, Sung Y. Kim, said.

The new shipment demonstrates the United States’ continued commitment to meet President Joe Biden’s pledge to donate 1.2 billion doses of safe and effective vaccines worldwide, according to the embassy's statement.

"This new delivery of safe and effective vaccine doses will help Indonesia to continue pursuing higher vaccine and booster coverage," Ambassador Kim said.

"The United States remains committed to our strategic partnership with Indonesia to achieve sustained economic growth and development goals," he added.

Since the onset of the pandemic, the US government has provided more than US$77 million to support Indonesia’s COVID-19 response.

Besides, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the United States has assisted more than 840 thousand frontline healthcare workers and strengthened almost two thousand hospitals, clinics, and laboratories, the US Embassy informed.

"The United States is committed to partnering with the government and people of Indonesia to save lives while making a strong economic recovery and securing decades of development progress that was harmed by the pandemic," the embassy said.

Pewarta : Yuni Arisandy Sinaga/Antara

Editor : Yakop

Ministry, BPOM Conduct Cyber Patrols To Oversee Syrup Drug Circulation

Redaksi    Wednesday, October 26, 2022    Comment   

Ministry, BPOM Conduct Cyber Patrols To Oversee Syrup Drug Circulation

Ministry, BPOM conduct cyber patrols to oversee syrup drug circulation.

Jakarta - The Ministry of Communication and Informatics will help the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) to conduct cyber patrols to oversee the circulation of syrup drugs.

"We will fully monitor and assist BPOM to protect the public from syrup drugs, with high toxic elements," Minister of Communication and Informatics Johnny G. Plate stated here, Wednesday (26/10/2022).

Plate explained that his ministry routinely conducted cyber patrols with other institutions. During this patrol, the ministry will help BPOM to oversee the circulation of syrup drugs to anticipate acute kidney disorders in children.

Head of BPOM Penny Kusumastuti Lukito noted on Monday that there were several drugs circulating on the e-commerce platform that did not meet the safety requirements set by her agency.

"There are 1,400 links that we have to follow up as part of the BPOM cyber patrols," Lukito remarked.

Until now, the BPOM has announced five drug brands that are considered ineligible, as they contain ethylene glycol (EG) and diethylene glycol (DEG) compounds that exceed the threshold.

The Ministry of Health also found at least 102 types of syrup drugs that had been consumed by patients with acute kidney disorders.

The hundreds of drugs are being investigated by BPOM to see the level of EG and DEG content in the syrup.

As of October 24, the Health Ministry found 255 cases of acute kidney disease in children from 26 provinces. A total of 143 patients died or equivalent to 56 of the total number of cases.

Results of the investigation showed that cases of acute kidney disorders were caused by syrups containing these compounds.

The Jakarta Health Service, on October 24, 2022, had received 90 reports of cases of acute kidney disorders in children, with almost 50 percent of the patients having died. In addition, the health service opened information services regarding acute kidney disorders through cellular numbers belonging to 44 community health centers (puskesmas) in the city.

In a bid to treat the patients, Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin reported that his ministry had brought Fomepizole medicine from Singapore and Australia to cure acute kidney disorders patients at the Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital as a referral hospital for this disease.

He said that patients receiving Fomepizole injections started to show improvement and were in a stable condition.

Oleh : Natisha Andarningtyas, Resinta S/Antara

Editor : Yakop

PAEI Calls for Bolstering Health Protocols To PreventXBB Spread

Redaksi    Tuesday, October 25, 2022    Comment   

PAEI Calls for Bolstering Health Protocols To PreventXBB Spread

PAEI Calls for Bolstering Health Protocols To PreventXBB Spread. (Antara/Pixabay)

Jakarta - Head of the professional development division of the Indonesian Epidemiologists Association (PAEI), Masdalina Pane, has urged the community to strengthen the health protocols to prevent the spread of the XBB variant of COVID-19.

"The community must strengthen the health protocols because the XBB variant has been found in Indonesia," she said when contacted on Tuesday.

Pane, who is also a researcher at the Public Health Research Center of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), explained that the XBB or the BA.2.10 variant has become a reminder of the need for compliance in wearing masks, washing hands, and avoiding crowds.

"The emergence of the new variant has also highlighted the need for protecting vulnerable groups such as older adults, children, and people with comorbidities from infection," she added (26/10/2022).

Through good compliance with the health protocols, a potential surge in cases may be suppressed, she said.

"What's important is the capacity of testing, tracing, and treatment must be continuously improved as part of efforts to prevent COVID-19 spread," she added.

She further noted that the capacity of testing, tracing, and treatment is also very important in order to support the transition to the endemic phase.

According to her, by increasing the capacity of testing, the actual number of cases in the community can be obtained.

Earlier on Friday (October 21, 2022), Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated that the XBB variant had been detected in Indonesia, and the government was monitoring the development of the case.

The minister emphasized that the country is not yet safe from the pandemic.

The first case of COVID-19 in Indonesia was confirmed in March 2020. According to data from the COVID-19 Handling Task Force, as of October 25, 2022, the nation has recorded 6,475,672 COVID-19 cases, 6,297,282 recoveries, and 158,475 deaths.

Oleh : Wuryanti Puspitasari, Raka Adji/Antara

Editor : Yakop

Ministry to Directly distribute AKI antidote to health facilities

Redaksi    Tuesday, October 25, 2022    Comment   

Ministry to Directly distribute AKI antidote to health facilities

Ministry to Directly distribute AKI antidote to health facilities.

Jakarta - The Jakarta Health place of job has mentioned that the Ministry of Health will Directly distribute the antidote for acute kidney damage (AKI) to health facilities that are treating AKI patients to expedite its dealing with.

"it really is Allotted to health facilities that raise out remedy (of AKI patients)," head of the Jakarta Health place of work, Widyastuti, pointed out here on Tuesday.

The health administrative center head did Not deliver further Details on the antidote allocation that Jakarta would receive because it would be Supplied Right away to health facilities.

The Jakarta Health administrative center recorded 90 acute kidney damage cases in Children in the Period from January to October 24, 2022. Of the number, practically 50 percent died.

Consistent with Widyastuti, AKI patients who are still undergoing treatment are being treated in vertical hospitals owned by means of the Principal executive.

In Jakarta, Cipto Mangunkusumo Health center (RSCM) and Harapan Kita Mother and Baby Clinic are serving A. referral hospitals.

The Jakarta Health workplace has increased the bed abilitythe los angeles pediatric intensive care devices (PICU) in hospitals in the province from 197 to 219The l phase of efforts to address AKI in Teenagers.

The Health place of work has also increased the competency of doctors and nurses to take care of the limited selection of nephrology consultants or medical experts who playThe lrole in diagnosing and treating kidney troubles in Childrens, children, and teens.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health will accelerate the advent of Fomepizole, an antidote to drug poisoning seen in acute kidney damage patients. The Remedy Will be Provided free of price to all patients.

In keeping with the ministry’s Records, the condition of 10 out of 9/11 acute kidney damage patientsThe la Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital--who had consumed syrup drugs suspected of being contaminated with Distinctive chemical materials—has gradually multiplied after taking Fomepizole.

"We can conclude that this medication (Fomepizole) has A.high-quality affect, and we can accelerate its arrival to Indonesia so that Youngsters will probably be saved," Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin observed all throughthe los angelespress conference on Monday.

Health Minister Highlights That Many Indonesians Lack Vitamin D

Redaksi    Sunday, October 23, 2022    Comment   

Health Minister Highlights That Many Indonesians Lack Vitamin D

Health Minister Highlights That Many Indonesians Lack Vitamin D.

Jakarta - Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated that there are still many people in Indonesia that experience vitamin D deficiency and remind the public to actively exercise and expose themselves to sunlight to avoid the condition.

There were many elderly people in Indonesia that experienced vitamin D deficiency even though it was necessary to avoid bone loss, he noted after an event in commemoration of National Osteoporosis Day here, Sunday.

"There are many Indonesians that, surprisingly, even though sunlight is abundant, experience vitamin D deficiency, which leads them to experience osteoporosis," he remarked.

Osteoporosis is a condition wherein the body has a low bone mass accompanied with declining bone tissue quality which can cause bone fragility.

This condition can be experienced by all individuals, both children and adults. However, osteoporosis occurs more frequently toward women who enter the menopause period.

Vitamin D plays a role in maintaining calcium and phosphor that can maintain bone density.

As a result, deficiency of vitamin D leads to deficiency of these two minerals which can make bones to become more fragile and at risk of osteoporosis.

"To this end, exercise more frequently and do activities outdoor, specifically before nine o'clock in the morning," she noted.

The data from 2018 Basic Health Research (Riskesdas) shows that around 36,4 percent of males and 30,7 percent of females over the age of 10 lack physical activities.

During the occasion, Sadikin informed that a total of 26 Fomepizole drug vials to medicate atypical progressive acute kidney injury will brought into the country today.

Indonesia received 10 vials of Fomepizole drug from Singapore and 16 from Australia that will be directly delivered today from the two countries, he informed.

Oleh : Prisca T V, Fadhli Ruhman

Editor : Yakop

Ministry Prioritizing Covid-19 Vaccination For Travelers

Redaksi    Thursday, October 20, 2022    Comment   

Ministry Prioritizing Covid-19 Vaccination For Travelers

Ministry Prioritizing Covid-19 Vaccination For Travelers.

Jakarta - COVID-19 vaccinations are currently being prioritized for travelers in view of the declining stocks of available vaccines, Acting Director for Immunization Management at the Ministry of Health Prima Yosephine informed here on Wednesday.

“Thus, we are prioritizing this first while waiting for the shipment that will come and procurement from inside the country. We expect that, by November, everything will return (to normal),” she said.

She then urged people who are keen to travel to take the COVID-19 booster at the Harbor Health Office (KKP) before the departure date.

She asked them to contact the KKP as it stipulates the conditions for immunization. For example, to undertake umroh, people need to take the meningitis vaccination, which is being provided at the KKP, she explained.

According to Yosephine, currently, the available COVID-19 vaccine stock is pegged at around one million doses and it has already been distributed to the regions.

Vaccine stocks are also available at several public health centers (puskesmas), so people can get vaccinated at puskesmas that still have vaccines in stock.

"Not all puskesmas (stock) is empty, but it is not like in the past, in which (the stock) is abundance. Moreover, there are several puskesmas that do not have a stock," she informed.

In addition to prioritizing the booster vaccine for travelers, the government is also striving to conduct mapping to relocate vaccine stocks from provinces that have more vaccines to provinces that lack stocks.

On Wednesday, the COVID-19 task force reported that the number of Indonesians who have received the third dose or booster has reached 64,636,490.

The number of people who have received the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine increased by 44,428 on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the number of citizens who have received the first and second doses stood at 205,055,891 and 171,728,936, respectively. 

Oleh : Suci Nurhaliza, Fadhli Ruhman

Editor : Yakop

Health Ministry Finds Harmful Substances In Syrup Medicines

Redaksi    Thursday, October 20, 2022    Comment   

Health Ministry Finds Harmful Substances In Syrup Medicines

Ilustrasi. Health Ministry Finds Harmful Substances In Syrup Medicines. (pixabay)

Jakarta - Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin confirmed that three dangerous chemical substances were found in syrup medicine products suspected to cause atypical acute kidney failure among children.

According to the ministry's press statement here, Thursday, Sadikin remarked that the three substances were ethylene glycol (EG), diethylene glycol (DEG), and ethylene glycol butyl ether (EGBE), which ideally should not exist in syrup medicines.

Those chemical substances could be found in the syrup if polyethylene glycol, with strict tolerance limits, is used to increase the solubility of syrup medicines.

According to Indonesia Pharmacopoeia, EG and DEG were not used in the medicine formulation, yet their existence as a contaminant in syrup medicine, is tolerated for 0.1 percent for glycerine and propylene glycol and 0.25 percent for polyethylene glycol.

Sadikin confirmed that the ministry had suspended the sale of over-the-counter syrup medicine products to prevent more cases of acute kidney failure.

The ministry has also instructed health officers to not prescribe syrup medicine, suspected to be contaminated with EG and DEG, to patients, he emphasized.

"Pending the final quantitative research report from BPOM (National Agency of Drug and Food Control), the Health Ministry took conservative measures by (placing) a temporary ban on the use of syrup medicines," the minister noted.

He urged residents whose children need syrup medicines that could not be substituted with other medicine types, such as anti-epilepsy, to consult a paediatrician or a child health consultant.

Sadikin stated that 70 cases of atypical acute kidney failure among children below five years of age had been detected in Indonesia per month.

"Children with acute kidney failure have reached 70 per month, and the real case (count) might be higher than this. We also record close to 50-percent casualty rate," Sadikin remarked.

Oleh : Andi Firdaus, Nabil Ihsan/Antara

Editor : Yakop