Indonesia Takes Proactive Measures to Mitigate Bird Flu Risks
JAKARTA, investortrust.id – The Ministry of Health has taken immediate action to enhance preparedness for avian influenza (bird flu) following rising cases reported in several countries. The ministry issued Circular Letter Number PM.03.01/C/28/2025 as part of a national strategy to raise awareness and ensure readiness among key stakeholders to address the potential spread of the virus.
Indonesia remains an endemic region for bird flu in poultry, with both Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) viruses actively circulating. Reports from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) in December 2024 indicated an increase in bird flu cases among mammals in various countries.
Yudhi Pramono, Acting Director General for Disease Prevention and Control, emphasized that while the global risk to human health remains low, proactive measures are essential.
“We must stay vigilant against the potential spread of bird flu. Early preventive actions are crucial for public protection,” Yudhi stated, as quoted on the Ministry of Health’s official website on Thursday, January 9, 2025.
The Circular Letter provides strategic guidelines, including enhancing surveillance systems to track cases, improving healthcare facilities and laboratory capacities for early detection, and fostering cross-sector collaboration through the One Health framework.
Yudhi also urged the public to actively participate in prevention efforts by adopting Clean and Healthy Living Behaviors (PHBS). He recommended avoiding direct contact with sick or deceased poultry, reporting such incidents to local veterinary authorities, and seeking medical attention for symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
“We are confident that with strong cooperation between the government, healthcare professionals, and the public, we can minimize the potential spread of bird flu and continue safeguarding public health,” Yudhi concluded.