Gov't should conduct COVID-19 test again amid XBB spread

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Government's spokesperson for COVID-19, Reisa Broto Asmoro, suggested the government to promote COVID-19 examination tests, both PCR and antigen, to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 XBB sub-variant.

“Many of these XBB sub-variants have very mild symptoms. The most common symptoms are cough or cold. Hence, we must promote COVID-19 test again to detect the virus and prevent the spread," Asmoro stated here, Monday.

The spokesperson noted that the XBB sub-variant was still included in the Omicron variant category. However, the rate of transmission was faster than (that of the) other sub-variants and must be closely monitored since the symptoms were very mild and even asymptomatic.

By conducting a COVID-19 screening test, the people can receive the right diagnosis and treatment regarding their illness, she affirmed.

"If a person experiencing symptoms is tested positive with COVID-19, then they must conduct self-isolation to avoid further infection to other people," she remarked.

According to Asmoro, conducting COVID-19 testing is also helpful in tracking cases or close contacts in the community through the PeduliLindungi application. Anyone suspected of being infected and looking to enter public spaces can be immediately identified and handled.

If it is not possible to conduct the test, Asmoro urged all parties to pay attention to their health condition and status before conducting activities. People are suggested to stay at home if they experience symptoms, such as cough, runny nose, and fever.

However, case tracking must be accompanied by an expansion of the booster vaccination to increase the antibody levels in people's bodies. Health protocols, such as wearing masks, washing hands, and maintaining distance, must be maintained to avoid virus transmission, she remarked.

"Do not forget that vaccination can still protect us from serious diseases. It is better to immediately receive a booster vaccine. We do not want other cases to increase in this country," she stated.

In addition, head of the communication and public service bureau of the Health Ministry, Siti Nadia Tarmizi, stated that the government continued to promote education related to health protocols and vaccinations to tackle the COVID-19 XBB sub-variant.

The Health Ministry is also strengthening COVID-19 handling from upstream to downstream, such as expanding the coverage of booster vaccine and collaborating with WhatsApp messenger to improve health services to the community, such as through telemedicine.

She called on the public to reply to messages on WhatsApp through the Ministry of Health's account with a verification mark to receive free medicine and consultations related to consuming drugs or other COVID-19 handling while conducting self-isolation.

"Medicine for telemedicine can be accessed directly by the person concerned or their family at the nearest Kimia Farma Pharmacy. People, who tested positive for COVID-19, will receive a WhatsApp message from the Ministry of Health at 081110500567," she stated.