In response to the rising number of monkeypox virus cases in Indonesia, Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali has initiated stricter screening measures. This precautionary action aims to curb the escalation of monkeypox infections in the country, particularly with the approaching 2024 New Year holiday season.
By early November 2023, there had been 33 confirmed monkeypox cases, with the virus spreading to the Jakarta region and several cities in West Java. The Indonesian Ministry of Health has also issued an appeal to mitigate the local transmission of the monkeypox virus.
Furthermore, other major airports, such as Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta (Soetta) Airport, have adopted similar measures. The rapid spread of the monkeypox virus is attributed to heightened holiday and travel activities and an increase in unconventional sexual encounters.
The monkeypox virus presents a grave concern that demands immediate attention from the Indonesian government. In cases where individuals at the airport are suspected of carrying the monkeypox virus, the airport authorities will promptly collaborate with airlines upon detecting any relevant symptoms.
I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport am taking specific measures to address this issue, primarily at the international arrival gate. The airport has recently augmented its array of temperature monitoring devices to screen every incoming passenger.
Handy Heeyudhitiawan, the General Manager of PT Angkasa Pura I I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, has affirmed the airport’s commitment to intensify screening for the monkeypox virus, encompassing individuals arriving in and departing from Bali. This vigilant monitoring system operates around the clock to prevent further transmission of the virus.
About Monkeypox Vaccine
On 24 October 2023, the Indonesian Ministry of Health launched a monkeypox vaccination program. The primary focus of this vaccination initiative is on men who have engaged in high-risk same-sex sexual encounters within the last two weeks.
The vaccine is administered in two doses, with a four-week gap between them. Produced by Bavarian Nordic Denmark, this vaccine received BPOM certification on 17 March 2023.
Since its commencement on 24 October 2023, a total of 447 individuals have initiated the vaccination process through various health services provided by the Jakarta Health Service. Encouragingly, this vaccine is offered free of charge to those who meet the specified criteria.
Preventing Monkeypox Virus
To safeguard yourself from the monkeypox virus, you can implement the following preventive measures:
- Steer clear of close contact with individuals exhibiting monkeypox symptoms.
- Avoid direct physical contact, including hugging, kissing, and engaging in sexual activities (vaginal, anal, and oral) with infected individuals.
- Refrain from handling the personal belongings of someone who has contracted monkeypox.
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