By: Zavier Perdana)*
Entering mid-2025, several countries in the world, including Indonesia, are starting to be alert again to the potential spike in COVID-19 cases. Although the global pandemic has been declared under control in the past two years, the emergence of several new variants that are more easily transmitted and potentially resistant to some vaccines raises its own concerns. In addition, high community mobility post-pandemic and the relaxation of various health protocols provide room for the virus to spread again. In a situation like this, it is important for the public not to be careless and to return to implementing a healthy lifestyle as the main bulwark in preventing the transmission of COVID-19.
One of the most basic steps is to ensure that personal hygiene remains a priority. Washing hands with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds should remain a daily habit, especially after doing activities outside the home or touching potentially contaminated surfaces. The coronavirus can survive quite a long time on the surface of objects, so without realizing it, hands can become a medium of transmission. In addition, the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers is still recommended, especially in public places where hand washing facilities are limited.
Chairperson of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Felly Estelita Runtuwene reminded all Indonesian people to get used to implementing a clean and healthy lifestyle to prevent the re-transmission of COVID-19. Amid the threat of the virus returning, the use of masks has again become an important concern. Although it was relaxed, the public is asked to wear masks again in closed spaces, public transportation, and high-density areas, especially for vulnerable groups. Masks help prevent the transmission of droplets which are the main route of virus transmission. The correct use of masks (covering the nose and mouth tightly) needs to be continuously educated so that the public does not just wear masks as a formality.
Meanwhile, Lecturer of the Faculty of Medicine, UNS Surakarta, Tonang Dwi Ardyanto explained that maintaining physical distance is also still relevant in the current situation. Avoid unnecessary crowds and try to maintain a distance of at least one to two meters, especially in areas with poor ventilation. Moments such as family events, social gatherings, and religious activities should still be carried out by considering the capacity of the room and ventilation. This adaptation is important, considering that the new variant of COVID-19 detected this year has a higher transmission rate than the previous variant.
In addition to external protection, strengthening the immune system through a nutritious diet is essential. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber helps the body be better prepared to fight infection. Increase consumption of fresh fruits, green vegetables, healthy proteins, and drink enough water. This healthy diet is not only useful for preventing COVID-19, but also improves overall health quality, which is very important amid the risk of the return of various infectious diseases.
Regular exercise is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle during this alert period. Light to moderate physical activity done routinely can strengthen the immune system, increase stamina, and maintain mental balance. With just 30 minutes of physical activity per day, the body can be better prepared to face health challenges. In addition, exercise helps reduce stress, which if left untreated, can reduce the body’s resistance and trigger various health problems.
The Head of the DPP Perindo Party for Public Health, Sri Gusni explained that it is no less important to maintain mental health. The prolonged pandemic situation has previously had a psychological impact on many people. Now, facing the potential for a new wave, it is important for the public to maintain mental sanity. Avoid excessive consumption of information that is not necessarily accurate, use time for positive activities, and establish healthy communication with family and friends. If you feel excessively anxious, do not hesitate to consult a professional.
In this digital era, information literacy is the main key in dealing with the pandemic. The public is required to be wise in filtering every news about COVID-19, only referring to official sources such as the Ministry of Health, WHO, or other trusted institutions. Shared awareness to always prioritize valid data is an important foundation in implementing a healthy and alert lifestyle.
Facing the potential return of COVID-19 in 2025, adopting a healthy lifestyle remains a simple but impactful step. Every individual has a responsibility to create a safe environment—by washing hands regularly, maintaining distance, and wearing a mask when necessary. Even if the situation improves, it is this vigilance and consistency of positive habits that will break the chain of transmission and prevent new waves.
Moreover, prevention efforts must be supported by cross-element collaboration, starting from the government and health workers to the wider community. Willingness to comply with health protocols will strengthen collective resilience. Let us protect ourselves, our families, and our environment with a solid commitment—because handling COVID-19 is not just the task of one party, but our shared responsibility.
)* The author is a student at Uninus Bandung