Jakarta – The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the people by launching the TB Alert Movement, an integrated national movement to break the chain of transmission of Tuberculosis (TB), an infectious disease that has long been a silent killer and a serious threat to public health.
This movement does not only focus on education, but also includes early detection, massive treatment, strengthening the health system, and even support for the development of the latest vaccines. The government is present in the midst of society, ensuring that every step is taken based on science, scientific evidence, and a focus on people’s health.
Support for the program also came from academics who welcomed the government’s progressive steps in tackling TB. An immunology expert from Airlangga University, Prof. Dr. Fedik Abdul Rantam, emphasized that trusting Indonesia as a clinical trial location shows the government’s strategic role in global research on TB control.
“The trust that Indonesia is chosen as a clinical trial location shows the government’s strategic role in global research on TB control,” he said.
The vaccine being tested is a sub-unit vaccine based on the M72 protein derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, combined with modern adjuvants such as AS01E and QS21 to trigger immunity without major side effects.
“Only certain proteins can induce antibodies, so this vaccine is called a subunit vaccine,” explained Prof. Fedik.
Head of the P2P Division of the North Sumatra Health Service, Novita Saragih, explained that efforts to find and handle cases continue to be intensified.
“This shows that the government’s early detection system is working effectively in finding cases quickly. We continue to encourage early detection so that it can be treated immediately,” he said.
The government’s efforts focus on protecting the productive age group that plays an important role in development. Active checks are carried out in various high-risk locations such as correctional institutions, educational institutions, and densely populated settlements. “We are conducting case findings in various facilities and strengthening internal and external networks in health facilities,” added Novita.
However, educational challenges are still a major concern, and the government continues to intensify socialization.
“The government continues to educate the public to be more aware of the symptoms and risks of transmission, especially in the home environment,” said Novita.
Therefore, the public continues to be encouraged to implement clean and healthy living behavior (PHBS) and be disciplined in using masks, especially in dense and closed environments.
He also emphasized the importance of the involvement of all parties. “This movement is a call to all levels of society to work together to combat TB which claims thousands of lives every year. The success of vaccination and TB control will not be achieved without the active participation of the community,” he concluded.
The TB Alert Movement is a manifestation of the state that is present in real terms not only with intention, but with action. Now is the time for all elements of the nation to unite to realize a TB-free Indonesia.
