Inp.polri.go.id – Jakarta. Indonesian Health Ministry strengthen their surveillance for monkeypox in all health facilities. On that effort, the ministry also cooperates with communities and volunteers to reach several certain groups who are able to detect the case, particularly the close contact. “We are investigating the case thoroughly. We immediately carry out epidemiological investigations and also preparation for reference laboratories," says Director General of Disease Prevention and Control, dr. Maxi Rein Rondonuwu in his statement on Friday (10/27/2023). Accordin to him, several laboratories such as Health Laboratory Center has the capability to detect monkeypox. The ministry is also waiting for Whole Genome Sequencing examination on confirmation case to determine the varian of the monkey pox. Moreover, the ministry also gave the patients therapy while urging them to also isolate for a while. Most patients are being isolated in the hospital and most of the treatment provided by the hospital are in form of mental support. However, patients also given antivirus and antibiotics if their condition got worse. “All patients are in good condition, so in a week or two, the lesions on the skin could be disappeared and if the patient's condition is improving, they are permitted to return to home," he explained. In effort to prevent the disease, the ministry has vaccinated the patients since last year. Currently, the ministry states that they have 1000 doses for 477 people with each receiving a dose of two per months. However, dr. Robert Sinto says the examination in other countries shows that not all monkeypox patients received vaccine shots, only those who have severe symptoms or patients who have arrived in serious illness. (ad/ay/pr/nm)