Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin reassured the public, urging them to remain calm in light of the recently identified COVID-19 variant, Omicron EG 5.1 or Eris, which has been present in the country for the past approximately two months. "This variant is still classified at the lowest level among variants, not as high as Delta, but so far, there's no cause for alarm. Therefore, there's no need for the public to panic," stated Minister Budi on Thursday (8/10/23). However, he underscored the importance of maintaining vigilance in adhering to hygiene and health measures, with a strong emphasis on getting vaccinated against COVID-19 and considering booster shots. "For those who haven't yet received their vaccine, it is of utmost importance to do so, given the ample availability of doses, provided free of charge until the year's end. People should proactively seek booster shots and maintain a routine of thorough handwashing," he emphasized. He also stressed the significance, particularly for those feeling unwell, of wearing masks to curb the potential transmission of the virus to others. Stringent monitoring and control measures have been in place, successfully curbing its widespread impact despite its presence. "The initial report of this variant's presence in Indonesia surfaced around June or July. I am well-informed that our surveillance efforts are robust," he said. (ndt/hn/nm)