Indonesia Intensifies Bird Flu Surveillance Amid Rising Global Cases

TheIndonesia.co - In response to a rise in bird flu cases globally, Indonesia's Ministry of Health has issued a directive to heighten vigilance and strengthen prevention efforts against potential transmission risks. While the current risk of human infection remains low, health authorities stress the importance of early measures to protect public health.

Yudhi Pramono, acting director-general of the Ministry's Disease Prevention and Control Directorate, emphasized that Indonesia must remain cautious, given the ongoing presence of both Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) viruses circulating in poultry across the nation.

Recent reports from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) indicate a worrying rise in bird flu cases among mammals worldwide, including countries like China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and the United States. In December 2024 alone, new cases were reported in multiple regions, drawing global attention to the issue.

Pramono highlighted that, although the human transmission risk is currently considered low, the government must remain proactive. "Anticipatory measures are crucial to mitigating the spread of bird flu and safeguarding public health," he stated, according to Antara News Agency.

The Ministry's circular outlines comprehensive guidelines for local health offices, quarantine units, and hospitals to strengthen their surveillance systems, enhance detection capabilities, and foster collaboration across sectors using the "One Health" approach.

The public is urged to contribute to prevention efforts by maintaining clean and healthy living environments and avoiding direct contact with sick poultry or those exhibiting unusual deaths. By working together, the government, health workers, and communities can minimize the threat of bird flu, keeping the nation safe while monitoring the evolving global situation.