I think several geographical constraints still exist, with factors comprising the distance and difficulties in reaching some areas that make it difficult to send (vaccines)
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Vice President Ma'ruf Amin has pointed out that the COVID-19 vaccination program in Indonesia is hindered by geographical constraints, thereby making it difficult to send vaccines from the center to the regions.

"I think several geographical constraints still exist, with factors comprising the distance and difficulties in reaching some areas that make it difficult to send (vaccines)," the vice president stated after reviewing the COVID-19 Vaccination Center at the Special Dental and Oral Hospital, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Indonesia (RSKGM FKG UI), here on Tuesday.

Despite such constraints, the government is still targeting 77 percent of the total population, or equivalent to 208 million people, to be vaccinated against COVID-19.


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"We are targeting 77 percent, or 208 million people, to be vaccinated immediately. Initially, we targeted (vaccination) to be completed by the end of 2021, or December. However, we are optimistic that the program would be completed more quickly," he noted.

The vice president also appealed to all people that had received the COVID-19 vaccines to continue to strictly implement health protocols.

In addition, local governments are urged to continue to apply the "3T" or testing, tracing, treatment, so that the number of cases of active transmission of COVID-19 decreases.


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"We must continue to conduct tracing and testing. Meanwhile, we all know that (the number of COVID-19 cases) is also currently decreasing owing to the strict treatment," he remarked.

By continuing to implement health protocols, 3T, and vaccinations, Indonesia can soon enter an endemic period.

The government is preparing detailed scenarios related to handling the COVID-19 endemic since the virus will not disappear until an effective drug is found, according to the vice president.

"The scenario is being prepared in further detail. What is certain is that the current government continues to work on tightening health protocols as well as vaccinations," the vice president noted.

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Translator: Fransiska Ninditya, Katriana
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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