Bandung, IO – “Joint Steps to Prevent DBD (commonly known for dengue fever in Indonesia)”, part of the #Ayo3MPlusVaksinDBD campaign which is a partnership between PT Takeda Innovative Medicines with the Ministry of Health and local stakeholders, presented in Bandung, West Java. The series of “Joint Steps to Prevent DBD” held at Paskal Mall, Bandung, presents several educational activities about DBD and prevention efforts from September 6-8, 2024.
President Director of PT Takeda Innovative Medicines, Andreas Gutknecht, explained, “DBD is a life-threatening disease that can infect anyone. In Indonesia, everyone is at risk of contracting DBD throughout the year, regardless of where they live, their age, or their lifestyle. Moreover, this disease leading cause of death in children. To address this, we are very excited to organize ‘Joint Steps to Prevent DBD’ in many cities, calling for us to be more proactive and united in fighting DBD.”
Andreas added, “At Takeda, we are committed to being a long-term partner for the government, health workers, the private sector, and other stakeholders, in fighting DBD, both through our innovative prevention and beyond. We believe that through strong synergy between the private sector, central government, local governments, health workers, schools, and local communities, we can make a difference. Together, we will be able to make DBD no longer a scary disease, and create a dengue-free Bandung City by maintaining the implementation of 3MPlus and considering other innovative protection methods.”
Data from the Ministry of Health recorded that the cumulative number of dengue fever cases up to the 33rd week of 2024 was 181,079 cases with 1,079 deaths, higher than the total number of cases throughout 2023, which was 44,438 cases with 322 deaths. Bandung recorded the highest cases in the same period, 46,594, with 281 deaths. This is behind the “Joint Steps to Prevent DBD” activity held in Bandung as part of an effort to raise awareness of the importance of preventing dengue fever. Bandung is the third city to hold “Joint Steps to Prevent DBD” after Surabaya and Jakarta.
According to dr. R. Vini Adiani Dewi, the Head of the West Java Provincial Health Office, her party continues to face serious challenges in preventing and controlling DBD. “Every year, many residents are affected by this disease, especially in areas with high population density. Until early September, we recorded 47,525 cases in West Java with 286 deaths. We are making maximum efforts through vector control programs and increasing public awareness. However, we all have to be responsible for prevention. Through collaboration with the central government, we are committed to reducing the number of cases and deaths due to DBD in West Java. This strategy includes an integrated approach that involves all levels of society. For this reason, we invite all West Java residents to actively participate in DBD prevention through the 3MPlus and utilize dengue vaccine for all of our health and safety,” she said.
Continuing dr. Vini’s statement, dr. Anas Ma’ruf, MKM, Acting Director of Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (P2PM) of the Ministry of Health, stated that Indonesia faces a significant burden caused by dengue fever, with thousands of cases reported each year. “The government has developed a comprehensive national strategy to combat this disease, with a focus on strengthening the surveillance system, vector control, and community empowerment. Through the 2021-2025 National Dengue Management Strategy, we have set a sustainable target to reduce morbidity and mortality due to dengue fever. Comprehensive protection is very important considering the risk of dengue fever that threatens everyone without exception. The #Ayo3MPlusVaksinDBD campaign is an integrated part of this effort, providing education and preventive solutions that involve all levels of society. With cooperation between the government, health workers, and the community, we can together create an environment that is safer from dengue fever.”
Meanwhile, dr. Buti A. Azhali, Sp.A, MKes, a pediatrician from Borromeus Hospital said, “There are still many misconceptions about dengue fever circulating in the community. Some people who have been infected with it assume that they are immune and will not be infected again. Because there are 4 serotypes of dengue virus, dengue fever infection can recur, and even be more severe. Therefore, ensuring better protection through proper preventive measures is very important, including the vaccination method. Currently, the available dengue vaccine can be given to the 6-45 year age group and has been recommended for use by several medical associations, including the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI) for children aged 6-18 years, and by the Indonesian Society of Internal Medicine (PAPDI) for ages 19-45 years.”
It was revealed that to obtain optimal protection, vaccination must be carried out completely according to the recommended doses. “Regarding the administration of vaccines simultaneously with other vaccines, the public needs to consult further with a doctor about this,” she added.
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One of the performers on the September 7 event, Marc Klok, Central Midfielder and Captain of League 1 Club, Persib Bandung, said, “Now I feel calm, and have peace of mind because I have received optimal protection from DBD. What are you waiting for? Let’s take the same steps, to get protection for yourself and your family from the threat of DBD.”
The “Joint Steps to Prevent DBD” activity targeted more than 1,500 participants also received support from two public figures: Ricky Harun and Fitri Tropica. Before the main event on September 6-8, 2024, an opening activity was held at Taman Kiara on August 31, 2024, with the DBD Prevention Parade; Healthy Chats talk show; Healthy Moves with Liza Natalia, Zin Intan, and Zin Wulan; and coloring competition for children.
For more information regarding dengue fever and its prevention, please visit the Cegahdbd.com website or the Instagram and TikTok accounts @cegahdbd. (*)