"It is true that young people do have a stronger immune system. However, it must be noted that there are many cases where young people have become virus carriers for their parents. For that reason, discipline in following health protocols is essential," Mattalitti stressed in a press statement received here on Friday.
The COVID-19 Handling Task Force has also reported an increase in deaths among COVID-19 patients belonging to the productive age, he continued.
According to him, it would be beneficial for families and the environment if young people remain disciplined in taking good care of themselves.
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He said he hoped that the younger generation will be wiser in dealing with the pandemic.
Young people usually are asymptomatic or experience mild symptoms when exposed to COVID-19, he noted.
"What is very dangerous is when they transmit the virus to their parents, especially those who have comorbidities. So, I urge young people to increase their concern for their families. (Young people must) Always remember to follow the health protocols, and make sure they are clean before interacting with parents or people with a higher risk of COVID-19," he said.
Based on data recorded by the Ministry of Health in July 2021, 46.7 percent of COVID-19 deaths in Indonesia were reported among citizens aged over 60 years.
As many as 36.7 percent of the deaths were reported among patients in the 46-59 age group and 12.7 percent of the deaths were recorded in the 31-45 age group. In addition, there was an increase seen in deaths due to COVID-19 among patients in the 31-45 age group in July 2021.
“The numbers have skyrocketed. In July, there were 5,159 COVID-19 deaths from the 31-45 age group, whereas, in the previous month, there were only 964 deaths. The increase also occurred in the 46-59 age group, with a total of 13,694 people (succumbing to the virus)," Mattalitti said.
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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Raka Adji
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
