"We must control the vector, namely mosquitoes, but also treat humans through accurate diagnostics and appropriate treatment. That way, transmission can be suppressed and we can prevent mortality cases," Sadikin informed in a statement released by his office.
According to the minister, the death rate for dengue cases in Indonesia has been relatively high in the past 4 years. In 2021, there were 705 deaths, and the figure climbed to 1,236 in 2022, and then fell to 894 in 2023. As of March 18, 2024, at least 316 dengue-related fatalities have been recorded, he added.
Therefore, the Ministry of Health and the Joint Coalition (Kobar) of Lawan Dengue are trying to achieve the 2030 target of zero dengue deaths set by the World Health Organization (WHO) by using four strategies: promotive and preventive; surveillance; medical intervention; and therapeutic.
Earlier, the health caucus of the House of Representatives (DPR) and the Health Ministry launched a program called Kobar Against Dengue in September 2023 as a platform for joint efforts to support the achievement of the goal in Indonesia.
On Thursday, the coalition and the Health Ministry conducted a work meeting and a focus group discussion (FGD) with stakeholders to identify the main problems related to dengue mitigation in Indonesia as well as formulate appropriate programs.
On the same occasion, the deputy chairman of Commission IX of the DPR, Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, lauded the joint coalition's efforts in pursuing the target of zero dengue deaths in Indonesia.
"Efforts taken to achieve zero deaths from dengue must be appreciated and reinforced with good regulations," Lena noted.
He added that such efforts are not only the responsibility of the central government, but need contribution from regional governments to ensure effective dengue prevention in regions.
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Translator: Mecca Yumna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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