Since it was first discovered until now, Covid-19 has continued to grow. September 2020, the United Kingdom stated that it had detected a new variant of the coronavirus, B117. The new variant is said to be more infectious and has spread to countries across the world. This virus is also the carrier of the Covid-19 tsunami in India and our Minister of Health has stated that this virus had already entered Indonesia. Of course, we don't want the situation in Indonesia to get worse. Therefore, the best prevention of Covid-19 is to take care of ourselves and to keep our closest ones safe. Masking up, washing hands, and keeping your distance are mantras that should be memorized by now. We are even introduced to 5M — upgraded version of 3M, that is moving away from the crowd and reducing mobility. All these preventions meant for that ending we’ve all been longing for: to stop this pandemic as soon as possible.
While the pandemic is not yet over, we’re still obliged to implement health protocols. In order to remain vigilant in carrying out this obligation, let’s refresh our memories regarding the Covid-19 prevention.
Have a Solemn Ramadan by Sticking to Health Protocols
We’re clearly not exaggerating when we say it’s devastating to celebrate this Ramadan amid the pandemic. As a means to prevent Covid-19 as well as to protect the citizens, the government has stated that houses of worship should only be filled 50% of normal capacity. However, if you still want to go to the mosque, you can do it with full responsibility. First of all, you must bring your personal equipment. Second, you need to perform wudu from home. Third, when you’ve arrived at the mosque, don't forget to always keep a minimum distance of two meters and always wear your mask.
[Tips for Safe and Healthy Fasting During a Pandemic]
Not only doing our act of worshiping, Ramadan is also synonymous with visiting relatives. During this time, adjusting our habit while visiting our loved ones is mandatory. First, before visiting anyone, make sure that you’re healthy. Second, let your family know that you want to visit. If they say that they don’t take guests to their house, don't be offended. It’s understandable that the pandemic brings anxiety to people and we don't want to be the one that causes anxiety to our family, right? Last one, when you’ve arrived at the destination, please keep your mask and try to get together in an open space. Also, limit your visiting time especially if you’re visiting your grandparents or elderly families who are already vulnerable.
[How to Maintain Health Protocols During Ramadan]
Follow the PPKM Rules During Ramadan and Eid Holidays
As an effort to prevent Covid-19, the government has issued a Head of National Covid-19 Task Force Letter No. 13/2021 which discourages people to go mudik (annual exodus during Eid al-Fitr). We all know that everyone has the potential to be the carrier of the coronavirus to other people. The most terrifying thing is, people who are already infected do not even realize that they’re already sick and this will only worsen the situation. Therefore, not going mudik is a wise and noble choice to take care of those whom we care about.
Shopping centers are also a hot spot for the spread of the virus before the holidays. The government has issued regulations to prevent Covid-19 in shopping centers, including limiting the number of visitors, providing hand washing facilities and hand sanitizers, and not allowing people without masks to enter the shopping center. Even so, you don't have to take the risk. This time, let’s just do the shopping via online. Apart from being practical, online shopping aims to avoid a surge in visitors so you don't have to trap yourself in a sea of people.
Practice a Healthy Lifestyle and Take Your Covid-19 Vaccine
Although these tips are starting to sound tedious, a healthy lifestyle is the best protection to shield us from Covid-19. Eat regularly, get adequate rest, and consume vitamins to increase your immunity. If you’ve been doing an outdoor activity, clean yourself first before entering your house or your room, so you don't bring potential viruses into the room. In addition, clean your house or workspace frequently with disinfectants to keep your space sterile. The most important thing, wear a mask when you’re going to public places. This is a non-negotiable rule!
Moreover, take your Covid-19 vaccinations when it’s finally your turn as the government is still trying to make the vaccine evenly distributed. So, if you are one of the citizens who have been scheduled for a vaccination, take advantage of that privilege immediately. You know, there are people out there who want to be vaccinated but they shouldn’t due to health reasons. When people are vaccinated, it can slow down or even stop the spread of the virus.
[Who Shouldn't Get the Covid-19 Vaccine and Why?]
Pay Attention to the Maximum Capacity of Public Spaces
Based on Governor Regulation No. 3/2021, public areas or places that can cause crowds of people must be limited to a maximum of 50% of normal capacity during the PPKM period. This means that offices, houses of worship, public transportation facilities, cafes, or restaurants can only be filled at half or less than its normal capacity. If you’re in a public place and the capacity has exceeded the limit, it's better to wait a little until the crowd disperses. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
Report Health Protocol Violations through JAKI
Covid-19 prevention will run smoothly if we all take part in it. You certainly don't want to fight alone and leave your efforts in vain, right? Picture this, you’ve been taking care of yourself well by wearing a mask, but there are people who hang out without a single mask in sight. Or, you’ve been trying your best to stay at home, but there are a group of people who don't do physical distancing while in public spaces. These scenarios boil your blood, right? That's why JAKI is here. JAKI will accommodate every complaint from all Jakarta citizens. The report that you submit will be forwarded to the relevant local government for follow-up.
[5 Reasons You Should Report PSBB Violations via JAKI]
Don't be afraid to be a whistleblower because JAKI provides a hide report feature. This feature allows its user to remain anonymous so nobody knows the identity of the sender. By reporting violations during this time, you’ve once again contributed to fight the pandemic. Your contribution also helps the government to carry out their obligations to prevent Covid-19. If you haven’t downloaded JAKI yet, get it now on the Google Play Store or App Store.
These simple yet powerful steps to combat this pandemic should always be applied in our daily life, Smartcitizen. Hopefully this would be the last Ramadan that we celebrate in the midst of a pandemic.
112