Jakarta (ANTARA) - Main Expert Staff of the Presidential Staff Office (KSP) Brian Sriprahastuti stated that no confirmation had yet been received on 15 reported cases related to acute hepatitis in Indonesia.
As many as 15 cases of these findings could not be categorized as acute hepatitis of an unknown etiology, she remarked.
"We are still awaiting further examination. It might be Hepatitis E and Adenovirus. It is still suspected," she noted in a written statement, Wednesday.
From the 15 reported cases, 11 cases had been examined, and the results were not hepatitis A, B, C, and D, she revealed.
"However, they have not been tested for hepatitis E and adenovirus, as we are still waiting for reagents," Sriprahastuti noted.
She also emphasized that the increasing number of suspected cases of acute hepatitis found had demonstrated that the Early Alert System is functioning well.
In addition, the Circular Letter (SE) of the Minister of Health on Precautions for Case Findings of Acute Hepatitis Of Unknown Etiology was also well-received.
"Nevertheless, people still have to increase their vigilance, especially for families," she affirmed.
Earlier, Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin announced that there were 15 suspected cases of acute hepatitis in Indonesia on May 5.
A total of 15 suspected cases were found in Jakarta, East Java, and West Sumatra. The discovery of the suspected cases came after the Ministry of Health increased vigilance in the last two weeks.
The phenomenon of acute hepatitis of unknown cause drew global concern after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it as an extraordinary event (KLB) on April 15, 2022. The WHO received reports of 169 cases of acute hepatitis in 12 countries.
The Health Ministry urged people with an initial diagnosis of jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes, acute abdominal pain, acute diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, decreased consciousness or seizures, lethargy, myalgia, or arthralgia to immediately visit a health facility or hospital.
Members of the community were urged to always be careful though remain calm and take preventive measures by adopting a Clean and Healthy Lifestyle (PHBS), including frequently washing hands with soap, drinking clean and boiled water, and ensuring their food is clean and fully cooked.
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