Title: Tighter Health Screening at Soekarno-Hatta Airport Amid Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Detection in Indonesia
Article:
In response to the recent detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Indonesia, the Health Quarantine Laboratory (BBKK) at Soekarno-Hatta Airport (Soetta) has activated thermal scanners at Terminal 2 and 3 for international arrivals. This measure, implemented in collaboration with local health authorities, aims to enhance vigilance and prevent further spread of the virus.
Naning Nugrahini, Head of BBKK Soetta, revealed that travelers arriving at Soetta are now subject to mandatory temperature checks and visual observations. "Any passengers displaying signs or symptoms will be examined by a doctor, and if necessary, lab sample tests will be conducted," she informed on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
To bolster these efforts, all inbound travelers from overseas are required to fill out their health history on the Satu Sehat Health Pass (SSHP) system at their country of origin or point of departure. Furthermore, the airport authorities are closely monitoring risk factors associated with transportation modes and passengers themselves.
Naning elaborated, "We scrutinize each traveler’s history: their contacts, any symptoms, and their country of origin. We also establish protocols for Hygiene Living and Health Education (HLHE) and distribute informative messages on health practices and疫情 prevention."
Previously, Indonesia’s Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) addressed the HMPV issue, which had been circulating in China before it was found in Indonesia. Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin reassured the public not to panic, stating that HMPV is not a novel virus and has been known in medical circles for some time. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV has been present since 2001 and has a similar profile to the common flu, with symptoms like coughing, fever, runny nose, and breathing difficulties.
Budi clarified that while HMPV can affect vulnerable groups like children, elderly individuals, and those with specific health conditions, most infected individuals recover without requiring special care. It spreads through respiratory droplets, similar to influenza. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including adequate rest, regular handwashing, mask-wearing when unwell, and prompt medical consultation—can help mitigate the risk.
In conclusion, strengthening health protocols and maintaining calm awareness are essential in managing HMPV, as we have done with other viruses like COVID-19.
