Preventing a Bigger Outbreak in Regions

AWALUDIN UNTUK KOMPAS

Health workers examine a patient at a puskesmas (community health center) in Sotek village of Penajam district, Penajam Paser Utara regency, East Kalimantan.

Amid the euphoria entering the new normal, the number of Covid-19 cases actually surged in a number of regions. Yesterday on Monday (8/6/2020), the number increased 672, causing the total number to surge to 31,186 cases.

The largest increase of confirmed cases occurred in East Java, followed by West Java, South Sulawesi, Central Java and South Kalimantan. East Java, with 5,948 cases, is currently the second-largest epicenter of Covid-19 transmission after Jakarta with 8,033 cases.

This situation is really worrying because during the implementation of large-scale social restrictions (PSBB), there were so many violations and they were ignored. Furthermore, (the situation might worsen) in the new normal. Unless there are interventions and sanctions, the increase in cases in a number of regions will explode and it can quickly spread to the remote areas.

Learning from cases in Surabaya, the surveillance results show there are 30 clusters in 31 districts in Surabaya, the transmission pattern of which is very close to people\'s daily lives.

Learning from cases in Surabaya, the surveillance results show there are 30 clusters in 31 districts in Surabaya, the transmission pattern of which is very close to people\'s daily lives. There are clusters of markets, government offices, factories, shopping malls and even transmission within the family (Kompas, 8/6/2020).

Read also: New Cases Continue to Increase

Just like in Jakarta and a number of big cities in Indonesia, population density and mobility make it easy for the SARS-CoV-2 virus to spread. Moreover, many community members have ignored health protocols. They are not disciplined in wearing masks, do not keep their physical distance, are not diligent in maintaining hygiene and hand washing and violate the prohibition not to join gatherings or crowds.

People’s "indiscriminate" behavior meets the government policies that are confusing and less assertive. Admittedly, the government\'s denial of this epidemic in the early days has led to the increasing number of cases to an alarming level. However, there is no point in regretting what has happened. So, the question is, what must be done so that the transmission is not increasingly widespread?

KOMPAS/RIZA FATHONI

Visitors flock to a cellphone accessories shop in Mega Bekasi Hypermall, Bekasi city, West Java, even though a social distancing sign is posted on the floor on Monday (8/6/2020). The mall has been operating according to new normal policies, including by imposing the obligation to wear masks and maintain physical distance. Some shops in the mall are also limiting the number of visitors, although the mall is still quiet

Much work must be done, starting from improving communications within government agencies. In an epidemic, when health affairs intertwine with the economy, the government must become a trusted communication authority. This is the time for President Joko Widodo to act decisively, to take control of the Covid-19 countermeasures, as well as to hold the ministers and regional heads accountable for acting appropriately and correctly. Submission of information must be clear and easily understood by the public.

Tighten and clarify the rules, take firm action against anyone who violates them. Because even in developed countries, sanctions are reinforced.

Along with improvements in government agencies, educating the community is also part of the work. Encourage people to change their social and cultural behavior. Tighten and clarify the rules, take firm action against anyone who violates them. Because even in developed countries, sanctions are reinforced.

Read also: Economy in the New Normal

Mass surveillance and inspections must be carried out in a number of regions in the country. Prepare health infrastructure and resources, with all the necessary supporting facilities. Remember, our future is at stake.