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Medan urges health protocols amid rise in respiratory infections

In August and September, the number of upper respiratory infection cases in Medan increased by 20 percent, climbing from 27,715 to 30,952.

Apriadi Gunawan (The Jakarta Post)
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Medan, North Sumatra
Fri, October 24, 2025 Published on Oct. 23, 2025 Published on 2025-10-23T18:18:34+07:00

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Passengers wait to board an intercity train at Senen Station in Central Jakarta in 2020, as they head to their hometowns in the eastern part of Java for the New Year holiday. State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia at that time required passengers and staff to adhere to strict health protocols to curb COVID-19. Passengers wait to board an intercity train at Senen Station in Central Jakarta in 2020, as they head to their hometowns in the eastern part of Java for the New Year holiday. State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia at that time required passengers and staff to adhere to strict health protocols to curb COVID-19. (JP/Leo)

T

he Medan Health Agency in North Sumatra has called on the public to strictly follow health protocols following a significant rise in upper respiratory infections and influenza cases across the province.

In August and September, the number of upper respiratory infection cases in Medan increased by 20 percent, climbing from 27,715 to 30,952.

Acting head of the agency, Irliyan Saputra, said it had issued a circular instructing all healthcare providers in the city to educate residents about re-adopting health protocols implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic to curb the spread of illnesses.

“These measures include wearing masks, washing hands thoroughly with soap and running water, and maintaining distance from individuals showing symptoms of illness. People should also avoid touching their face, especially their eyes and mouth, with unclean hands to prevent viral or bacterial transmission,” Irliyan said on Wednesday.

He further advised the public to quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, particularly in enclosed spaces. Residents should cover their mouths with a tissue or handkerchief when coughing or sneezing. He also emphasized the importance of consuming nutritious foods and getting adequate rest to strengthen the immune system.

Read also: Jakarta pollution blamed for respiratory problems

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From January to September, North Sumatra recorded 669,835 cases of upper respiratory illnesses, an increase of around 102,687 cases, or 15 percent, compared with the same period last year.

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