JAYAPURA - The COVID-19 Task Force of Papua Province predicts a potential rise in coronavirus cases in Papua if the community lowers their awareness by not implementing strict health protocols.

Chairman of the Papua Province COVID-19 Task Force , Weliam R Manderi stated that the potential for an increase in cases could occur if residents were caught off guard and did not pay attention to health protocols.

Meanwhile, the coronavirus is very likely to be brought back from areas outside Papua and transmitted to those who do not comply with the health protocols.

"There are areas in Papua that still have the potential in rising COVID-19 cases and this should be an important note for each region".

"That's why the implementation of strict health protocols is mandatory to continue to be carried out by all of us wherever we are," explained Manderi, in Jayapura, Tuesday (6/9/2022).

Previously, the central government again extended the implementation of restrictions on community activities (PPKM). This makes all regions of Indonesia implement PPKM level 1 until October 3, 2022.

The extension is contained in the Instruction of the Minister of Home Affairs Number 42 of 2022 for Java Bali, and the Instruction of the Minister of Home Affairs Number 43 of 2022 for Outside Java Bali with a valid date until Monday (3/10/2022).

With the extension of the restrictions on community, Manderi ensures that restrictions on community activities or PPKM level 1, also apply in 29 districts and cities in Papua.

"Once again, even though the status of restrictions on the community is on level 1, residents must remain vigilant about the spread of COVID-19". 

"Still, health protocols are important. Covid-19 vaccination must also continue to be boosted," he said. ***