Jakarta Air Pollution Worsens, Health Office Urges Mask Use Amid Rising ISPA Risk

The DKI Jakarta Health Office (Dinkes) is appealing to residents to increase vigilance as the quality of air in the capital deteriorates. Vulnerable groups such as infants, toddlers, and the elderly are particularly advised to reduce outdoor activities and wear masks if they must be active amidst poor air conditions. Head of the DKI Jakarta Health Office, Ani Ruspitawati, stated that unhealthy air conditions can increase the risk of health disorders, especially those affecting the respiratory system. She urged residents to reconsider outdoor activities when the air is unhealthy, noting that vulnerable groups face a higher risk of health issues from pollution exposure. "The most important thing is especially for vulnerable groups, babies, toddlers, the elderly, to be more careful. If it's really bad when the air condition is not good, if you can't go out, you shouldn't go out," Ani told reporters. For residents who still need to carry out activities outdoors, Ani recommends the use of protective equipment such as masks. "Even if you have to carry out activities, if the condition is not good, you can use protective equipment such as masks," she continued. According to Ani, Acute Respiratory Tract Infections (ISPA) are among the diseases to watch out for when air quality declines, and residents are asked not to ignore appearing symptoms. "If you feel symptoms, there are symptoms, just come to the health facility so that you can get help quickly," she said. In addition to ISPA, other respiratory-related health disorders also need to be anticipated. The risk can be even greater for individuals with pre-existing conditions. "It will be exacerbated in people who already have co-morbidities, such as having asthma, they have lung disease," Ani added. Amidst this situation, Ani also reminded residents to maintain their body's resistance and implement clean and healthy living behaviors (PHBS).