Banjarmasin South Kalimantan (ANTARA) - The city government of Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, has declared an alert status for Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI or locally known as ISPA) due to continued rise in cases.
"The city government has issued a circular regarding this due to the increasing ISPA detected," said Acting Head of Banjarmasin Health Office Muhammad Ramadhan here on Thursday.
He said the government must act quickly to address the current surge in cases of ISPA or acute respiratory infection.
"The surge of ISPA cases has continued since August 2025," he explained.
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Ramadhan informed that ISPA illness recorded was 1,016 cases in week 36 and increasing to 1,403 in week 37 and continued to surge to 1,700 cases in week 38.
According to him, alert for ISPA has been implemented since September 29, 2025, because of recent exreme hot weather.
The city government is not only maintaning vigilance, but also preparing for patient care. The Health Office is mobilizing hospitals, community health centers and other health facilities to remain on standby to treat patients.
Health facilities are also asked to promote health awareness through education and community empowerment in efforts to prevent ISPA, so they can play active role in vigilance in their areas.
Read also: Students in Banjarmasin asked to wear masks to be aware of ARI
"This include spreading information and encouraging people to continue to apply healthy living behaviors (PHBS)," he said.
Meanwhile, those suffering from ISPA are advised to undergo treatment at home by getting adequate rest and give their bodies time to fight the virus.
In addition, drink a lot of water, juice and warm soup to prevent dehydration and help thin mucus.
Consuming nutritious foods containing adequate nutrient to help boost imune system.
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