Badung, Bali (ANTARA) - House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani emphasized the critical role of parliaments in addressing global health challenges, including the ongoing monkeypox outbreak.
"Parliaments play a role in tackling various global and regional issues, including health issues such as the current Mpox," Maharani said during the 2024 Indonesia-Africa Parliamentary Forum (IAPF) in Nusa Dua, Bali, Sunday.
Maharani highlighted Indonesia's proactive measures to prevent the disease's spread, such as enhanced screening at international entry points and utilizing health declaration applications. Given the global nature of the virus, Maharani urged international collaboration to mitigate its impact.
She called for increased cooperation between governments and emphasized the importance of proactive steps to prevent further transmission. The World Health Organization (WHO) had previously declared monkeypox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, but this status was revoked in May 2023.
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However, recent increases in cases, particularly in the African region, led to the reinstatement of this designation in August 2024. While most cases of monkeypox are mild, the disease can be severe and even fatal. As of August 15, 2024, Indonesia had reported 88 cumulative cases in six provinces.
Indonesia calls for joint efforts to combat monkeypox
Ketua DPR RI Puan Maharani (tengah) berfoto bersama dengan sejumlah delegasi Forum Parlemen Indonesia-Afrika (IAPF) 2024 di Nusa Dua, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Minggu (1/9/2024) (ANTARA/Dewa Ketut Sudiarta Wiguna)
