"The number of COVID-19 cases in Sleman has begun to decline, although it is not too significant," Kustini noted on Thursday.
The district head remarked that in July, the number of new cases crossed 500 per day, though since early August, the figure was below 300 cases per day.
Meanwhile, the Bed Occupancy Rate (BOR) reached around 65-70 percent, from the earlier 95-100 percent.
"COVID-19 vaccination in this area has also reached 40 percent comprising health workers, public service officers, and the elderly," she remarked.
The Sleman government has also targeted to administer vaccination to students in the age bracket of 12-17 years and pre-elderly adults.
Related news: Sleman residents encouraged to use COVID-19 isolation shelters
Kustini expects that with the high level of public interest for vaccines and declining number in positive cases, PPKM Level 4 in Sleman might not likely be extended again after August 16.
"The high level of public enthusiasm for this vaccine is an important aspect. This means they are aware that they can end the pandemic and can return to normal activities and always implement health protocols," Purnomo affirmed.
The district head is also upbeat that the PPKM level 4 in Sleman would be revoked after August 16.
"Hopefully, this period would be the last for PPKM level 4 in Sleman, so our business and economy can bounce back again," she emphasized.
Kustini is optimistic that the tourism industry, restaurant, and other sectors as well as micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) would recover amid the pandemic.
However, she agreed that PPKM was not intended to impact businesses, but was rather a serious effort by the government to break the chain of transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
"When the pandemic is over, we will work hand-in-hand with related stakeholders to make improvements across all sectors, including the economy," Purnomo noted in her closing statement.
Related news: Sleman's recovery count surpassed new daily cases on July 30
Related news: COVID-19 recoveries in Sleman outnumbered new daily cases
Translator: Victorianus P, Resinta S
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
