Indonesia’s Health Ministry has significantly enhanced its ability to test for monkeypox (Mpox) by setting up a network of 12 specialized laboratories across the country. This expansion is a key part of the nation’s strategy to strengthen its response to the virus.
Laboratory Locations:
- Medan, North Sumatra
- Batam, Riau Islands
- Jakarta
- Pangandaran, West Java
- Yogyakarta
- Magelang, Central Java
- Surabaya, East Java
- Banjarbaru, East Kalimantan
- Makassar
- Papua
These laboratories are equipped with necessary testing reagents, though some are still in the process of procurement. This network aims to facilitate early detection and treatment, which are critical in managing the spread of Mpox.
Public Health Advisory: Acting Director-General of Disease Prevention and Control, Yudhi Pramono, stressed the importance of recognizing symptoms early. He urged individuals to seek medical attention if they experience signs such as rashes, lesions, fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, fatigue, or muscle aches.
Current Status: Indonesia has reported 54 confirmed cases of Mpox to date, all identified as the less severe clade IIb variant based on whole genome sequencing (WGS).
The expanded testing capacity is expected to improve monitoring and control efforts, helping to mitigate the impact of Mpox on public health.
Indonesia’s Health Ministry has launched a network of 12 new laboratories across the nation to improve monkeypox (Mpox) testing. This move aims to bolster the country’s response to the virus and enhance early detection and treatment.
Laboratory Locations:
- Medan, North Sumatra
- Batam, Riau Islands
- Jakarta
- Pangandaran, West Java
- Yogyakarta
- Magelang, Central Java
- Surabaya, East Java
- Banjarbaru, East Kalimantan
- Makassar
- Papua
These labs are now equipped with essential testing reagents, with some still in the process of procurement. The expansion underscores the importance of rapid testing in controlling Mpox outbreaks.
Public Advisory: Yudhi Pramono, Acting Director-General of Disease Prevention and Control, has urged the public to seek medical help if they notice symptoms like rashes, lesions, fever, or swollen lymph nodes.
Current Situation: Indonesia has confirmed 54 cases of Mpox, all of which are of the less severe clade IIb variant. The new facilities aim to support timely diagnosis and treatment, enhancing the nation’s ability to manage the virus effectively.