“We cannot stop the implementation of PPKM despite the positivity rate being already 1.6 or 1.4 percent. Vaccines in the community help to suppress the spread," he stated during an online discussion here Tuesday.
Ginting called on the public to always maintain health protocols, such as implement the 3M comprising wearing masks, washing hands, and maintaining distance. He also reminded the government to always follow 3T -- testing, tracing, and treatment -- and also expedite vaccinations.
Based on data obtained from the Ministry of Health, the Task Force for COVID-19 Handling and data from the provinces in Java-Bali, the number of positive cases had decreased.
The occupancy rate for COVID-19 isolation beds is below 10 percent, while the death rate has been below 60 percent per day.
Related news: Elderly vaccinations to be completed before Christmas, New Year
Thus, the PPKM, starting from the emergency phase to the current level, is expected to be a tool to deal with COVID-19 in a bid to thwart virus transmission and reduce occupancy of isolation beds.
He later noted that through the PPKM posts at the village and sub-district levels, vaccinations being promoted by the government are expected to be successful.
"We must not become careless and stay vigilant during this positive trend. Since we have seen health improvement, we start recovery in economic, educational, social, and cultural areas. Also, that is why we hold the Papua National Games (PON), conduct face-to-face schooling, and open shopping centers. Thus, this is controlled easing," he said.
Ginting emphasized that the implementation of PPKM must be continued to suppress transmission of the virus. For instance, there is a spike in cases in neighboring countries, with good infrastructure and vaccination coverage, but hospital occupancy is very high, he pointed out.
"We must not repeat this, as this is our shared responsibility. The important aspect is inculcating health protocols as a part of our day-to-day life and expediting vaccinations," he added.
Related news: Indonesia tops COVID-19 recovery index in ASEAN: Minister Hartarto
Translator: Devi Nindy Sari, Resinta S
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
