INDRAGIRI HILIR — Coinciding with National Health Day on November 13, 2024, the LKC Dompet Dhuafa Emergency Health Response Team (RDK) and Dompet Dhuafa Riau Branch moved quickly to respond to the Malaria Extraordinary Event (KLB) health crisis in Indragiri Hilir Regency. This response was carried out following a significant increase in malaria cases which has been designated as an outbreak by the Indragiri Hilir District Government.
The Acting Regent of Indragiri Hilir, Erisman Yahya, has issued a Regent’s Decree (SK) related to the Malaria Outbreak to ensure the handling is carried out thoroughly and effectively. The first location to focus on was Kualu Selat Village, Kateman Sub-district, where 3,780 people were directly affected by the outbreak.
In collaboration with the Riau Provincial Health Office, the RDK Team and Dompet Dhuafa Riau carried out various emergency response efforts, including:
- Clean and Healthy Lifestyle Education (PHBS): Providing understanding to the community about the importance of maintaining environmental hygiene.
- Malaria RDT Rapid Testing: Ensuring early detection for exposed residents.
- Distribution of Mosquito Repellent Liquid and Vitamins: Helping the community protect themselves from mosquito bites and increase their immune system through immune boosters.
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Ridia Wulandari, PIC of the Dompet Dhuafa Riau Health Program, emphasized Dompet Dhuafa’s commitment in dealing with health issues in Riau, including the Malaria Outbreak.
“Dompet Dhuafa Riau and RDK LKC DD will continue to be committed to responding to health issues in the Riau region. Malaria outbreak is a national issue that requires serious attention. We want people to avoid malaria and be able to live a healthy life to continue their activities as usual,” he said.
Ridia also added that malaria does not only affect children, but also adults. Therefore, it is important for all parties to maintain environmental hygiene so as not to become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
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The same thing was also conveyed by Amanda Dwi Putri, Dompet Dhuafa’s RDK Team. She urged people to maintain a healthy lifestyle, clean the environment, and always use mosquito nets.
“We must start living a healthy lifestyle. Do not litter, especially in humid areas along the Indragiri River, so as not to become a place of accumulation of garbage that triggers the spread of malaria. Don’t forget to always use mosquito nets to avoid mosquito bites,” Amanda concluded.
Through collaboration with various parties, Dompet Dhuafa Riau hopes that this effort can help break the chain of malaria spread and increase public awareness of the importance of clean and healthy living. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and photo: DD Riau, Syafira
Editor: Ronna