Jakarta (07/12) — Indonesia has declared Extraordinary Event (Polio) status in Pidie District, Aceh, after the discovery of a case of polio. One of the preventive measures taken was to achieve polio vaccination coverage in Aceh of up to 95%.
Commission IX DPR RI PKS faction member, Dr. Kurniasih Mufidayati, revealed that the polio epidemic was not only a serious concern in Aceh but also throughout Indonesia.
Kurniasih said one thing that can be done for prevention is to step up polio immunization. Especially now that it’s in conjunction with the National Child Immunization Month (BIAN) campaign.
“Learning from the Covid-19 vaccination, an effective immunization approach is a humane approach, not administrative sanctions. So we hope that the polio immunization results across Indonesia can go according to target without having to threaten but with a humanist persuasion,” Kurniasih said in his statement.
He said each region has distinctive characteristics that may be the entry point for an immunization call approach.
“If in Aceh you can keep religious leaders, if in other places you can adapt to local culture and culture. Invite them in a non-fearful way, if necessary, encourage them to give appreciation to those participating in the immunization,” Kurniasih said.
Ministry of Health data as of November 16, 2022, polio vaccination results outside Java are still very low. Only three provinces achieved OPV vaccine (drops) that reached 80% of the target, while only 1 province for IPV vaccine (injection) outside Java-Bali reached 80% of the target.
“Other areas, not just Aceh, that have outbreaks should also be of concern, especially the local government. This is an effort to protect generations. So a strong commitment from regional leaders is needed to provide support for immunization in their area. Don’t let new cases be stirred up and awakened to pursue immunization results,” he said.
