Government spokesperson for COVID-19 Handling Reisa Broto Asmoro invited the community to support testing, tracing, and treatment (3T) to prevent a spike in COVID-19 cases after the Eid homecoming exodus period.

“We can prevent this spike in COVID-19 cases with strict health protocols and vaccinations, both booster and complete doses,” Asmoro stated during an online broadcast on Monday.

The spokesperson urged the community to get tested if they experienced COVID-19 symptoms after partaking in the exodus.

People that have come in close contact with those who tested positive for COVID-19 are expected to actively take part in tracing to prevent the virus from spreading.

Moreover, Asmoro continues to encourage people to partake in the national vaccination program until they have received the booster dose to maintain immunity.

The spokesperson urged everyone, who has received the second vaccine dose for at least three months, to get the booster dose at the nearest health facility as soon as possible, especially older adults, who are part of the vulnerable group.

She noted that a booster dose is required because the people’s immunity reduced after six months.

Lastly, parents with children in the age bracket of 6-17 years and have not been fully vaccinated are expected to assist their children in getting vaccinated as a form of protection against COVID-19.

Vaccination is also essential, so that children can join learning activities safely after the 2022 Eid holiday.

Meanwhile, Asmoro advised people with comorbidities to consult with a doctor first to get a recommendation or approval before getting the jab.

This year, for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic struck, the Indonesian government has allowed people to travel to their hometowns to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in view of the improving pandemic situation in the country.

The government has also urged people joining the homecoming exodus to complete their primary and booster vaccinations. Those not meeting the vaccination requirement are urged to show a negative COVID-19 test result.

According to data provided by the COVID-19 Handling Task Force, as of May 9, 2022, Indonesia has recorded a total of 6,048,685 COVID-19 cases, 5,886,211 recoveries, and 156,396 deaths.

Source: Antara News