Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Erlina Burhan, Head of the COVID-19 Task Force at the Indonesian Medical Association (IDI), urged the public to heighten COVID-19 precautions, including mask-wearing and avoiding gatherings, amidst a surge in global cases, on Wednesday (6/12/23). "We are currently witnessing a surge in COVID-19 variant cases across 104 countries, including the EG.5, HK.3, and BA.2.86 variants, notably in places like Singapore and Malaysia. With a noticeable easing in the adherence to health protocols, particularly mask-wearing, given the prevailing conditions and the spike in cases in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, PB IDI urges the public to reinstate the practice of wearing masks, especially when exhibiting symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose," she explained. Globally, the last 28 days (23 October - 19 November 2023) witnessed a spike in new variant cases in 104 countries, with 43 reporting deaths. Singapore has recorded 22,000 Omicron variant cases, while Malaysia saw a substantial increase, attributed to high mobility during year-end travel and social gatherings. The public is reassured that subvariants of Omicron generally present mild symptoms, and it remains uncertain whether bA.2.86, EG.5, or HK.3 lead to different symptoms. Severity depends on individual immune systems, with particular concern for the elderly and those with comorbidities. Additionally, she encouraged the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle, balanced nutrition, regular handwashing, and limiting time in enclosed spaces. (ar/bg/pr/nm)