"Monkeypox is still a question among the public because the information is still diverse. Therefore, research related to this disease is essential for the public to know, including the symptoms and what needs to be prepared," she said at a Talk to Scientists (TTS) webinar on "Monkeypox, A Global Health Emergency, and What Do We Need To Know?" that was followed online from here on Tuesday.
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented an important lesson for all, namely the vital role of research in identifying viruses, which can lead to the formulation of control measures, health protocols, and the discovery of vaccines to control diseases caused by the viruses, Dharmayanti noted.
Scientific research and studies can also limit public panic over the lack of information on infectious diseases, she said.
With the help of research results, information related to monkeypox can be made more in-depth, enlighten the community, and strengthen health intervention efforts.
In responding to the problem of monkeypox, the BRIN Health Research Organization is ready to identify the virus that causes it and conduct research related to monkeypox so that it can strengthen Indonesia's readiness if the virus enters the country.
A researcher from the Center for Medical and Preclinical Research, Reza Yuridian Purwoko, said that BRIN has invited various parties to collaborate on research and innovation related to monkeypox. The parties include researchers, lecturers, university students, private parties, and industries.
Earlier, the Health Ministry activated the surveillance system at all entry points to Indonesia to prevent the spread of monkeypox.
Under the surveillance system, port health offices are checking the body temperature and indications of monkeypox in all travelers arriving from countries with cases of transmission of the zoonotic disease, which can be transmitted from animals to humans as well among humans, director-general of disease prevention and control at the Ministry of Health, Maxi Rein Rondonuwu, said.
In addition, the government has prepared laboratories and health service facilities to mitigate monkeypox transmission.
Related news: Ministry readies two laboratories to conduct monkeypox examination
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Translator: Martha Herlinawati, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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