Hence, it means that 99.2 percent of our population had been protected from various vaccinations or COVID-19 infectionJakarta (ANTARA) - The levels of antibodies formed in Indonesians increased to 99.2 percent ahead of Eid al-Fitr in May 2022, Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated.
"(The levels of) antibodies in Indonesian society had increased to 99.2 percent. Hence, it means that 99.2 percent of our population had been protected from various vaccinations or COVID-19 infection," Sadikin noted in a press statement at the State Palace, Monday.
The minister remarked that the increase in the levels of antibodies among members of the public was seen in the results of a sero-survey conducted by the Ministry of Health along with the Faculty of Public Health from the University of Indonesia (UI). In December 2021, the antibody levels in Indonesian society had reached 86.6 percent.
The second sero-survey was conducted since the government was keen to measure the community's antibodies before entering the Eid holiday and homecoming as a research base to implement several policies.
"During our sero-survey in December 2021, the antibody titers ranged from 500 to 600. In March, the antibody titers fell in the 7,000-8,000 range," he explained.
Sadikin noted that results of the sero-survey also showed that several Indonesians had high levels of antibodies.
Thus, the immune system in the body can fight the virus and reduce the risk of hospital admissions and deaths.
The government is optimistic that this year's homecoming activities would run well and would not have a negative impact on families in their hometowns, the ministry stated.
However, in accordance with the directives of President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Muhadjir Effendy, Sadikin urged all parties to stay vigilant against the spread of COVID-19 since other countries are experiencing an increase in positive cases.
He urged everyone to remain disciplined in implementing health protocols, especially by wearing masks in public places and during social activities.
"Some neighboring countries, such as China and Hong Kong, are experiencing an increase in cases. We must remain careful and alert," he noted.
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Translator: Hreeloita Dharma S, Resinta S
Editor: Sri Haryati
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