The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has announced a significant development in Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to combat the monkeypox outbreak. According to the latest reports, Indonesia is poised to receive a substantial donation of 2,000 doses of the monkeypox vaccine from its fellow ASEAN member countries.
This proactive measure is a response to the country’s dire need for such vaccines, as its current stock stands at a mere 1,000 doses, adequate for vaccinating only 500 individuals.
In the words of Maxi Rein Rondonuwu, the Director General of Disease Prevention and Control at the Ministry of Health, “There will be around 2,000 doses, they say, provided by ASEAN for Indonesia.”
This statement was made during a virtual press conference held on Thursday (26/10), underscoring the collaborative spirit among ASEAN nations in addressing this public health challenge.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that this generous donation, while undoubtedly a significant step forward, may not entirely meet Indonesia’s vaccination requirements in the face of the monkeypox outbreak. Maxi Rein Rondonuwu went on to reveal that the Ministry of Health continues to explore additional avenues to secure more doses of the monkeypox vaccine.
Furthermore, in a demonstration of Indonesia’s resolute commitment to combating this emerging health crisis, Maxi Rein Rondonuwu also unveiled the Ministry’s plans to source monkeypox vaccines from international sources, an additional measure to ensure an ample supply of vaccines to protect the population.
As the situation unfolds, the Ministry of Health anticipates a considerable surge in monkeypox cases within Indonesia. The projection suggests that there could be as many as 3,600 cases within a year, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Maxi Rein Rondonuwu explained, “So our estimation is that it could reach up to 3,600 cases in a year.” This prediction is based on a comparative analysis of case rates, particularly drawing parallels with the United Kingdom’s experience.
The pivotal role of education in containing the monkeypox outbreak cannot be overstated. Maxi Rein Rondonuwu emphasized the importance of educating the population, particularly high-risk groups. In his words, “Epidemiologists estimate that our cases, with the key population, could reach around 3,600 people if we don’t intervene properly, especially in educating them.”
This multifaceted educational initiative includes promoting clean and healthy living practices and encouraging individuals to refrain from sexual activity if they exhibit any symptoms associated with monkeypox.
In light of the recent developments, it’s notable that 14 confirmed cases of monkeypox within DKI Jakarta have been attributed to local transmission. This fact serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of the situation, prompting the Ministry of Health to anticipate a continuous rise in monkeypox cases in the coming days and weeks.
The importance of proactive measures, collaboration, and education to curb the outbreak remains paramount in the collective efforts to safeguard public health.
