The entry of Omicron in East Java should be a matter of serious consideration.
Surabaya, East Java (ANTARA) - Regional Representatives Council (DPD RI) speaker La Nyalla Mahmud Mattalitti requested the provincial and district or city governments to make a prompt move in response to the entry of Omicron detected in Surabaya, East Java.

"The entry of Omicron in East Java should be a matter of serious consideration," he remarked here on Monday.

"Please immediately make a move, so that the potential spread of this variant could be prevented that would stop the rise of COVID-19 cases once more," he noted.

Mattalitti pointed to higher likelihood of infections in the absence of early precautionary actions, especially since the Omicron variant has a swifter infection rate.

"In addition to conducting quarantine for those infected, please promptly conduct blocking and tracing with mass swab testing for local residents and those who had physical contact with the infected residents," he emphasized.

Related news: Health service explains chronology of Omicron finding in East Java

Massive dissemination of information on the importance of health protocols should also not be neglected while observing the spread of COVID-19 in regions, he added.

The Omicron variant was detected in Surabaya in a resident after going on a family vacation in Bali. As of Sunday, two people were infected, though they showed no symptoms.

"For people, who went to a vacation in Bali, I advise to take precautionary measures by conducting a PCR test and undergoing self-quarantine. Then, remain calm and no need to panic," Mattalitti stated.

Moreover, he expects the public to keep abreast of information concerning developments pertaining to the Omicron variant.

"If you experience similar symptoms, please immediately seek medication in order to prevent spreading the infection to other people," he affirmed.

"Several experts spoke of the COVID-19 vaccine being less effective against the Omicron virus," he added.

Related news: Don't panic about first case of Omicron: E Java Governor

Translator: Fiqih Arfani, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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