CASES of the Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) virus are increasing again in Indonesia. This virus can spread quickly and poses a high risk if not treated immediately, but vaccination can be the solution.
Director of PT Kalbe Farma, Mulialie, stated that the public has become increasingly aware of the importance of vaccination since the Covid-19 pandemic. However, vaccination must still be carried out routinely, even if there is no outbreak.
Kalbe Farma is very concerned about the spike in HFMD cases affecting children in early 2024. They support the government in reducing the incidence of HFMD through health education and providing the HFMD EV71 vaccine.
“Praise God, we together with PT Kalventis are trying to complete the vaccine portfolio by presenting the Enterovirus 71 vaccine, which mainly attacks children,” said Mulialie.
HFMD begins with flu symptoms, fever, and red spots on the mouth, hands, and feet, which can interfere with appetite. This virus incubates for 3-5 days before symptoms appear, and generally attacks children aged 5-10 years.
Chair of the Acute Respiratory Tract Infection (ISPA) Working Team of the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) Nani Rizkiyati revealed that there has been an increase in HFMD cases throughout Indonesia, with more than 27,000 suspected cases since the beginning of the year.
In response to this surge, PT Kalbe introduced the EV71 vaccine, imported from China, to prevent transmission of HFMD disease which can be fatal.
“This virus can be life-threatening if complications occur. “Even though the symptoms disappear, the virus can remain in the body and be contagious,” said Kanya Ayu Paramastri.
Kalbe has distributed around 150 thousand doses of the EV71 vaccine, but it is currently only available in a few hospitals. The cost for one dose of vaccine is around IDR 1 million, depending on each hospital’s policy.
“In China, the EV71 vaccine has succeeded in reducing HFMD cases. “We hope that this vaccine can protect Indonesian children from this infectious disease,” added Mulialie.
With the presence of the EV71 vaccine, it is hoped that parents will become more aware of the dangers of HFMD and take preventive steps through vaccination to protect their children’s health. (Z-10)
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**Interview with Mulialie, Director of PT Kalbe Farma, on the Rise of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in Indonesia**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mulialie. We’ve seen a concerning rise in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases, particularly among children in Indonesia. Can you tell us more about what is causing this increase?
**Mulialie:** Thank you for having me. Indeed, we are witnessing a troubling resurgence in HFMD cases, especially in children aged 5 to 10. The virus is highly contagious and can spread quickly in environments like schools and daycare centers. Factors such as seasonal changes and increased social interaction among children post-pandemic may be contributing to this spike.
**Editor:** What are the symptoms that parents should look out for?
**Mulialie:** HFMD typically begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and sore throat. However, it’s characterized by red spots and sores that appear on the mouth, hands, and feet. This can lead to significant discomfort and may disrupt a child’s appetite, which is concerning for parents.
**Editor:** You mentioned the importance of vaccination. How crucial is it in combating HFMD?
**Mulialie:** Vaccination plays a critical role in managing HFMD outbreaks. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the public’s awareness of vaccination has improved significantly. Regular vaccination is essential to build herd immunity, even outside of outbreak periods. Kalbe Farma, in collaboration with PT Kalventis, is committed to providing the Enterovirus 71 vaccine, which targets this illness specifically.
**Editor:** What steps is Kalbe Farma taking to support the government in addressing this health issue?
**Mulialie:** We are actively involved in health education initiatives to raise awareness about HFMD and its prevention. By promoting vaccination and providing access to the HFMD EV71 vaccine, we aim to reduce the incidence of this disease and protect our children.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mulialie, for sharing your insights. It’s vital that parents stay informed and take preventive measures during this rise in HFMD cases.
**Mulialie:** Thank you. Together, we can work to keep our children healthy and safe from HFMD.