Dean of FK: The Covid-19 is a problem that must be solved together

Rectorate, UIN News Online – Dean of Faculty of Medicine (FK) UIN Jakarta Hari Hendarto reminded that Covid-19 pandemic is a national problem that must be solved together. Therefore, every citizen is expected to strictly follow the health protocols and follow the vaccination program.

This was said by Hari during a webinar organized by Social Trust Fund (STF) UIN Jakarta entitled “Omicron dan Vaksinasi”, Tuesday (02/15/2022).

“This situation (pandemic -ed) is not only a problem for doctors, nurses and the state, but also for all Indonesian people,” he said.

He explained, a special drug for the Covid-19 had not yet been found. Medical and pharmaceutical scientists are still struggling to find an effective drug against this virus.

However, he continued, the spread of this virus can be suppressed by implementing strict health protocols and following a vaccination program. “There is no cure yet. But we can prevent the infection by implementing strict health protocols and vaccinations,” said Hari.

Hari added, since it was first discovered, Covid has shown the development of a number of virus variants. After the Delta variant, scientists found a new variant called Omicron with an incubation incubation of 1.5 days or faster than the incubation period for the Delta variant of 1.9 days.

The Omicron variant, which was only discovered in November 2021, continues to appear in various countries, including Indonesia. “The delta is still there, but Omicron is already here, disrupting the health situation in many countries,” he added.

Although the risk of the Omicron virus is considered lighter than the Delta variant, Hari reminded the public to remain aware of this virus.

Given the health risks and speed of transmission, Hari asked everyone to strictly maintain health protocols and follow the vaccination program. The vaccine itself is made by following strict research by experienced research institutions with the full attention of countries so it remains safe for the people who are vaccinated.

Furthermore, Hari explained, vaccine products used in vaccination programs were developed to form antibodies and increase a person's immune system to face of possible virus exposure. Therefore, every citizen who meets the health requirements is encouraged to participate in the vaccination.

“For its effectiveness, it is directly proportional to prevent patient hospitalization. This is evidenced by a study that found only five out of 100 vaccinated people had to be hospitalized compared to 100 people who had to be hospitalized because they had not been vaccinated,” said Hari. (zm/usa)