"Preliminary data from South Africa shows that Omicron variant is indicated to spread faster than the previous type of mutation. However, Omicron is indicated to have a low level of severity," he said at an online press conference on Monday.
The low level of severity is reflected in the number of hospitalized cases and the low death rate, Pandjaitan explained.
"Though people must pay attention that the mortality rate is a lagged indicator," he added.
Pandjaitan also confirmed that until now, no cases linked to the Omicron variant have been detected in Indonesia.
"Until today, based on the information provided by the Health Ministry from the results of genome sequencing that is continuously being carried out, no cases of the Omicron variant have been found in Indonesia," he remarked.
However, the government will continue to evaluate the quarantine process for foreign travelers to ensure that quarantine is carried out properly, the minister said.
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One of the policies that will be implemented is a change in the status of foreign travelers' PeduliLindungi application, which will turn black during their quarantine period, he elaborated.
"Based on data from Angkasa Pura airport operator, there was a significant increase of up to two times flights to overseas destinations under normal conditions," Pandjaitan informed.
Therefore, the government is carefully anticipating their return from overseas by continuing and imposing a 10-day quarantine, he added.
"The government reminds the public not to go abroad except for urgent interests," he said.
The government also continues to increase the capacity of quarantine hotels to anticipate an increase in the number of people returning or visiting Indonesia from abroad, he informed.
"The quarantine policy for foreign travelers will continue to be evaluated in accordance with the development of the Omicron variant," he added.
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Translator: Ade Irma J, Resinta S
Editor: Suharto
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