Stay Vigilant Against Omicron Variant, President Jokowi Says

President Jokowi

In light of the spike in COVID-19 cases triggered by the Omicron variant, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has called on the public to stay vigilant.

However, the President also said there is no need to overreact.

“We need to be careful, be vigilant, but we must not cause fear and panic,” the President said in a statement from Bogor Presidential Palace, in Bogor, West Java province, Tuesday (18/1).

According to the President, various studies including reports from the World Health Organization unveiled that the Omicron variant is more easily transmitted yet cause milder symptoms.

“Patients infected with this variant generally can recover without hospitalization. However, once again, we have to stay vigilant but do not panic,” he said.

In the meantime, to slow down the rate of transmission of the Omicron, the President also emphasized a number of points, including reducing mobility.

“For those without urgent matters, you’d better stay home and refrain from doing activities in crowded areas. And for those who work from home, go on with it,” he said.

President Jokowi also asked the public not to travel abroad for non-essential purposes.

“I also urge the public to refrain from travelling overseas if there are no important and urgent matters,” he said.

The President also underscored the importance of vaccination in tackling the pandemic, including the current increase in Omicron cases, while urging the public to immediately get their jab, both primary and secondary doses or even boosters.

“For those who haven’t been vaccinated yet, do it immediately. For those who have received the first vaccine (dose), get the second dose immediately. For those who have had two vaccines, seek a booster vaccine immediately. Vaccine is free of charge for the safety of us all,” he said.

The President also again reminded the people once again to remain disciplined in implementing health protocols as one of the measures to tackle the pandemic.

“I will always remind you to always wear a mask, maintain physical distancing, and wash your hands. The point is to follow health protocols with discipline,” he remarked. (TGH/UN) (EST/EP)