JAKARTA, KOMPAS.TV – The Ministry of Health through the Directorate General of Disease Prevention and Control is promoting complete dose dengue vaccination to reduce the number of cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) in the face of the current rainy season.
Like quoting Betweenthe Arbovirosis Working Team, Director General of P2P, Ministry of Health, Agus Handito, said that dengue is still a fairly high health problem and often causes extraordinary incidents and deaths in Indonesia.
“Currently, the prevalence of dengue in Indonesia represents a serious challenge. “Even though the government has made various efforts to overcome this problem, especially regarding the Eradication of Mosquito Nests (PSN), we still see fluctuating case numbers every year,” said Agus, Saturday (9/11/2024.)
Also read: DHF numbers in Jambi have increased drastically, 424 cases have been recorded since the beginning of 2024
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Indonesia is experiencing a spike in dengue fever cases, with 88,593 confirmed cases and 621 deaths as of 30 April 2024 – around three times higher than the same period in 2023.
Meanwhile, he added, based on data from the Ministry of Health, up to the 42nd week of 2024, there were 203,921 dengue cases in 482 districts/cities in 36 provinces with 1,210 deaths in 258 districts/cities in 32 provinces.
Therefore, his party is now aggressively inviting the public to carry out complete doses of dengue vaccination by campaigning for the movement #Ayo3MPlusVaksinDBD to achieve zero deaths from dengue fever (Zero Dengue Death) by 2030.
Currently there are 2 types of dengue vaccine that have received distribution permits from BPOM and can be used through a paid scheme.
However, Agus said, his party continues to carry out studies to obtain recommendations from the Indonesia Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ITAGI) so that the vaccine can be used for a national scale program.
Apart from promoting dengue vaccination, he said that the Ministry of Health is also utilizing technological innovations in Wolbachia-bearing mosquitoes which in research in Yogyakarta and other countries such as Brazil, Australia and Vietnam have proven to be effective in preventing dengue fever.
Also read: DHF cases continue to increase, 7 people die
How to get the dengue vaccine
Reported from the page Cegahdbd.comCurrently, the dengue hemorrhagic fever vaccine is still not included in the national immunization program. That is why the dengue vaccine is still paid and not covered by BPJS Health.
To get the dengue fever vaccine in Indonesia, you can visit several hospitals, vaccine clinics or the nearest health facilities. Each hospital or health facility sets different costs for the dengue vaccine.
Indonesia’s Dengue War: Vaccinations, Mosquitoes, and a Dash of Humor
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.TV – The ever-serious Ministry of Health has been cranking up the public service announcements and trying to combat the pesky problem of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) with a serious strategy: vaccination. As the annual rainy season descends upon us, bringing with it swarms of mosquitoes — basically the ‘Vikings of the insect world’ — it seems that the Ministry is saying, “Let’s give those mosquitoes a run for their money!”
According to the ever-factual Agus Handito, Director General of Disease Prevention and Control, he’s throwing a party called “#Ayo3MPlusVaksinDBD” — which roughly translates to “Hey, get your vaccine, or you might turn into a human buffet for mosquitoes.” This campaign aims for the lofty goal of achieving zero dengue deaths by 2030. Talk about high hopes! At this rate, you’d think they were trying to launch a rocket, not just vaccinate the nation.
The Numbers Game: A Serious Situation
Here’s where it gets serious, folks. As of April 30, 2024, the World Health Organization reported that Indonesia is grappling with a spike in dengue fever cases — not exactly what you want on your vacation itinerary. With a staggering 88,593 confirmed cases and 621 deaths, that’s around three times the count from last year. And if you think that’s bad, by the 42nd week of 2024, the Ministry of Health reported a jaw-dropping 203,921 cases and 1,210 deaths. I mean, forget winning the lottery; at this rate, we’re all just hoping to survive mosquito season…
As Mr. Handito put it, “The prevalence of dengue in Indonesia represents a serious challenge.” Clearly—serious enough that it seems the government is more effective at mobilizing information than, say, our last family Christmas reunion.
Getting Your Shot: A Stroll Down the Vaccine Aisle
If you’re wondering, “What do I have to do to get this amazing dengue vaccine?”—good question! Unfortunately, the dengue vaccine hasn’t made it onto the national immunization program just yet. So, prepare to open your wallet, because you’re likely looking at a paid vaccine, one that even BPJS Health isn’t covering. Because nothing says “We care” quite like medical bills during a health crisis.
Your quest for a vaccine involves visiting hospitals or health clinics, where prices can vary more than a buffet table at an all-you-can-eat restaurant. Some might even take your first-born as a down payment. Just kidding! (I think.)
Enter the Technological Heroes
As if fighting off tiny bloodsuckers wasn’t enough, the Ministry is also pushing for innovative tactics involving Wolbachia-bearing mosquitoes — a fancy term for genetically modified mosquitoes that have been shown to effectively combat dengue. These little buzzing superheroes have already made waves in countries like Brazil and Vietnam. Maybe there’s hope yet!
Now, if only we could genetically modify ourselves to develop wings…
Conclusion: A Serious Challenge Masquerading as a Comedy Show
In the grand narrative of dengue management, it’s clear that Indonesia is facing a serious health crisis. But with a little humor and creativity mixed into the messaging, perhaps more people will pay attention — after all, “It’s not just a punchline; it could be your life!” So gear up, get that vaccine (if you can afford it), and remember: every drop of rain brings those little monsters with it. Let’s show them who’s boss!
Stay safe, stay healthy, and may your mosquito repellent be ever in your favor!
**Interview with Agus Handito, Director General of Disease Prevention and Control, Ministry of Health**
*Host:* Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Handito. Let’s dive right into the dengue situation here in Indonesia. Recent figures indicate a sharp rise in dengue cases. Can you elaborate on this alarming trend?
*Agus Handito:* Absolutely. As of April 30, 2024, we recorded 88,593 confirmed cases of dengue fever and 621 deaths. This is roughly three times higher than the same period last year. By the 42nd week of 2024, these numbers have escalated to about 203,921 cases, and sadly, 1,210 deaths. This underscores the seriousness of the situation we are facing.
*Host:* Those numbers are indeed concerning. What measures is the Ministry of Health implementing to address this crisis?
*Agus Handito:* We’re launching the campaign **#Ayo3MPlusVaksinDBD**, which encourages the public to not only vaccinate but also engage in eradicating mosquito breeding sites. It’s vital that community members take action to protect themselves and their families from this illness. Our ultimate target is achieving zero deaths from dengue by 2030.
*Host:* Vaccination seems to be a key part of your strategy. Can you share details about the dengue vaccination process?
*Agus Handito:* Currently, we have two types of dengue vaccines available through a paid scheme, as they are not covered by the national immunization program. Vaccines can be obtained at numerous hospitals or health facilities, each setting different costs. We are also seeking recommendations from the Indonesia Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ITAGI) for potential inclusion in a national program in the near future.
*Host:* That’s important information for our audience. Beyond vaccination, I heard you’re also utilizing some innovative technology to combat dengue. Can you explain that?
*Agus Handito:* Certainly. We’re exploring the use of **Wolbachia-bearing mosquitoes**, an innovative approach that has shown promising results in several countries, including Brazil and Australia. This technology aims to naturally reduce the mosquito population that spreads dengue, complemented by our vaccination efforts.
*Host:* So, it’s a multi-faceted approach. As we wrap up, what message do you want to share with our viewers regarding dengue prevention?
*Agus Handito:* I want to remind everyone that dengue is preventable. Please engage in community efforts, get vaccinated, and eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds. Together, we can make a significant impact and aim for a future with zero dengue deaths by 2030.
*Host:* Thank you, Mr. Handito, for your insights and for the Ministry’s efforts in combating dengue. We hope to see improvements soon.
*Agus Handito:* Thank you for having me, and let’s work together to beat dengue!
