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Feeling unwell? Go to health posts
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Homebound travel: Vehicles queue as they pass a toll road connecting Salatiga-Kartasura at Kali Kenteng Bridge, Susukan, Semarang regency, Central Java, on June 10. (Antara/Aditya Pradana Putra)
T
he Health Ministry has erected health posts at terminals, ports and rest areas to ensure a safe and smooth trip for homebound Idul Fitri travelers.
“If they start to feel unwell, they can get free medical treatment at our health posts,” Health Ministry secretary-general Untung Suseno Sutarjo said during his visit at Merak Port, Banten, on Monday.
He further said drivers must have enough rest, check their blood pressure and take other health examinations if needed, prior to their trips.
Untung said health posts set up by the Health Ministry this year were more comfortable than those provided last year. "Every year we have health posts, but this year is better. The posts are cooler and cleaner and have access to toilets."
The Health Ministry has set standards for the health posts. “In the future, all health posts must have the same standards,” Untung said.
Six health posts are available at Merak Port. Since they started operating on 8 June, the highest number of people using health posts at Merak Port was on June 9, reaching 41 people. As of Monday, 69 people have used the health posts.
Erwin Hilianka, a doctor at one of the health posts, said the most common illnesses among the homebound travelers were fever and headache. The most common digestive-related illness was dyspepsia or gastritis.
"It's because after the travelers have gone on a long journey, they get tired," Erwin said. "Moreover, many don't pay attention to their food intake." (stu/ebf)
