"We already had a model for COVID-19 (handling), notably, by aggressively tracing those infected. We might use this COVID-19 (handling mode) to also trace (those suffering from) tuberculosis," he stated at the Merdeka Palace here on Tuesday while chairing a limited cabinet meeting on efforts to expedite the eradication of tuberculosis.
"We have to become sentient of the fact that 845 (thousand) people are infected with TB, and only 562 thousand have been identified. Hence, some 33 percent are not registered," he emphasized during the meeting attended by Vice President Ma'ruf Amin and several ministers.
The head of state reminded that the government should strive to continually reducing the number of TB cases in order to achieve its target of becoming free of TB by 2030.
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Jokowi is optimistic that the endeavors to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic would be conducted simultaneously.
Based on the government's 2017 data, some 165 thousand Indonesians had died of TB, while 98 thousand succumbed to the disease in 2018.
"We need to know the fact that 75 percent of tuberculosis patients are from the productive age group of between 15 and 55 years. We must be aware of this occurrence," he pointed out.
The president highlighted the importance of optimally organizing TB diagnostic and treatment services and ensuring sufficient stocks of TB medicines.
Jokowi also stressed on the significance of taking preventive and promotional cross-sectoral efforts in handling tuberculosis.
The president instructed the health minister, social affairs minister, and public works and public housing minister to work hand-in-hand to thwart the spread of tuberculosis.
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Translator: Desca LN, Fardah
Editor: Sri Haryati
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