Jakarta, IO – Cases of monkeypox in Indonesia are on the rise. Jakarta Health Department confirmed three new cases. Surveillance, Epidemiology and Immunization head Ngabila Salama said to date the total number of positive cases has reached 21 people.
“There are 21 active cases, with PCR positivity rate of 33 percent, all with mild symptoms and were infected through sexual intercourse, all of them men aged 25-50,” said Ngabila, per CNNIndonesia, Wednesday (1/11).
Ngabila said so far there are 13 people suspected of having monkeypox symptoms. Meanwhile, 40 other people who were in the suspect category have been declared negative based on PCR examination results.
With these findings, Kemenkes recorded a total of 27 monkeypox cases in Indonesia.
Kemenkes spokesperson Siti Nadia Tarmizi said they were found in Bandung, South Tangerang city, Tangerang regency and Tangerang city and Jakarta, per CNBC Indonesia.
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Kemenkes also appealed to the public to be alert to the spread of monkeypox. To prevent transmission, one is advised to avoid skin contact with people affected by rash that looks like monkeypox symptom. Also avoid contact with the body or items used by monkeypox sufferers.
One should also diligently wash or sanitize their hands before eating or touching their face and after using the bathroom. (un)