Indonesia Mandates SatuSehat App for International Travelers to Combat Mpox

In response to the World Health Organization’s declaration of a public health emergency regarding Mpox on August 14, 2024, Indonesia’s Transportation Ministry has introduced a new measure to curb the disease’s spread. Starting August 27, 2024, all international travelers must use the SatuSehat application to facilitate Mpox management and prevention.

Key Points of the New Policy

1. Mandatory Use of SatuSehat App:
   • Implementation Date: The requirement takes effect from August 27, 2024.
   • Who It Affects: The rule applies to all foreign travelers, including flight crew and passengers, arriving in Indonesia.
   • Purpose: The SatuSehat Health Pass is designed to help manage and prevent Mpox transmission at Indonesian airports.
2. Procedure:
   • Electronic Self-Declaration: Travelers must complete an electronic self-declaration form available at SatuSehat Health Pass.
   • Location: The form can be filled out at the departure airport before flying to Indonesia.
3. Airport Coordination:
   • Health Quarantine: Airport authorities are instructed to work with health quarantine centers to manage any cases of suspected Mpox upon arrival.
   • Handling Cases: Proper procedures must be in place to handle and isolate passengers who might be infected.
4. Current Mpox Situation in Indonesia:
   • Geographical Spread: Cases have been primarily reported in the Java and Riau Islands regions.
   • Case Statistics: As of August 27, 2024, Indonesia has reported a total of 88 Mpox cases since the WHO’s emergency declaration in 2022.
   • Recovery: All cases of Mpox reported in Indonesia have fully recovered, with the disease being associated with the 2B variant.
5. Vaccination Efforts:
   • Current Vaccine Supply: Indonesia previously purchased 1,000 doses of the Mpox vaccine, of which only 40 remain.
   • Additional Procurement: The government is acquiring 1,600 additional vaccine doses, expected to arrive within the week.

Impact and Response

The introduction of the SatuSehat app requirement aims to bolster Indonesia’s preparedness and response to Mpox by enhancing monitoring and control measures at entry points. By leveraging digital tools for health declarations, the government seeks to streamline processes and reduce the risk of Mpox spreading within the country.

This proactive approach reflects Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining public health and ensuring the safety of both its residents and visitors amid ongoing global health concerns.

To address the rising concerns about Mpox, Indonesia has introduced a mandatory requirement for international travelers to use the SatuSehat application. This new policy aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of Mpox as a public health emergency of international concern on August 14, 2024.

Details of the New Policy

1. Implementation of SatuSehat App:
   • Start Date: August 27, 2024.
   • Applicability: The requirement is for all foreign travelers, including passengers and flight crew, arriving in Indonesia.
2. Purpose and Function:
   • Health Pass: The SatuSehat Health Pass is an electronic self-declaration form designed to help monitor and manage Mpox at Indonesian airports.
   • Form Access: Travelers must complete the form, accessible at SatuSehat Health Pass, at their departure airport.
3. Airport and Health Coordination:
   • Role of Airport Authorities: They are tasked with coordinating with health quarantine centers to address and manage suspected Mpox cases at arrival points.
   • Handling Procedures: Clear protocols are in place to manage and isolate any travelers showing signs of infection.
4. Current Mpox Situation in Indonesia:
   • Case Distribution: Cases have predominantly been reported in Java and the Riau Islands.
   • Case Count: Indonesia has recorded a total of 88 Mpox cases since the WHO’s emergency declaration in 2022, with all reported cases having fully recovered.
   • Variant: The cases have been linked to the 2B variant of Mpox.
5. Vaccination Measures:
   • Existing Supplies: The initial stock of 1,000 vaccine doses has been largely depleted, with only 40 doses remaining.
   • Additional Doses: Indonesia is in the process of procuring 1,600 more doses of the Mpox vaccine, which are expected to arrive within the week.

Objectives and Benefits

The introduction of the SatuSehat app is intended to strengthen Indonesia’s ability to control the spread of Mpox by ensuring that travelers are monitored and that any potential cases are managed effectively. This measure is part of a broader strategy to protect public health and minimize the risk of disease transmission at key entry points.

By integrating technology into health management processes, Indonesia aims to enhance its preparedness and response capabilities, contributing to overall public health safety.