VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

VOI, Jakarta - The provincial government of Jakarta has prepared the Jakarta Regional Health Laboratory to support the implementation of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for Monkeypox (Mpox) in Jakarta.

"The Jakarta Health Office has also readied the Jakarta Regional Health Laboratory to support PCR tests," acting head of the Jakarta Health Office, Ani Ruspitawati, informed when contacted here on Friday.

The laboratory will also help with PCR tests carried out at the Laboratory of the Health Development Policy Agency (BKPK) of the Ministry of Health.

Patients who are confirmed positive after a PCR test will be sent immediately for a whole genome sequencing (WGS) examination so that genetic information regarding the origin of the disease and its spread in the community can be obtained.

Ruspitawati explained that Mpox cases have not only been detected in close contacts of Mpox patients, but people with suspected symptoms have also visited health facilities.

If people show signs and symptoms typical of Mpox, a PCR test will be carried out.

She noted that amid the spread of Mpox infections, her office is continuing to intensively carry out detection, prevention, and quick response to check the spread of the virus.

Information on preventing Mpox transmission has also been disseminated. The preventive measures include, first, following a clean and healthy lifestyle, such as wearing masks and washing hands with running water and soap.

Second, avoiding skin-to-skin contact and contact with wounds. Third, implementing safe, clean, and healthy sexual activities, as well as avoiding sexual activities when sick or experiencing symptoms.

According to data from Jakarta, the Mpox case count in the city has reached 17 as of Friday.

The number of active cases stands at 16, with the patients currently undergoing isolation at hospitals. Meanwhile, 1 patient has recovered and 11 more have been categorized as suspects.

"The positive active cases stand at 16 people, the PCR positivity rate is 44 percent," Ruspitawati disclosed.

All 17 patients are men aged 25–50, and 2 of them live outside Jakarta, she informed. (Antaranews)