RRI.CO.ID, Tangerang - The Tangerang Regency Health Agency in Banten is preparing dedicated referral hospitals and essential medical infrastructure to anticipate the potential spread of the Nipah virus. This move serves as a proactive measure to ensure healthcare facilities remain in a state of high readiness.

"To date, no cases of the virus have been detected. However, our healthcare facilities, particularly referral hospitals, are fully prepared to handle any potential findings," remarked Hendra Tarmizi, Head of the Tangerang Regency Health Agency, on Friday, January 30, 2026.

Hendra revealed that these facilities are equipped with isolation rooms and trained nursing staff. He urged the public to remain calm and avoid panic while staying vigilant against the zoonotic disease.

The Health Agency also reminded citizens to reduce transmission risks by avoiding contact with wild or sick animals. Additionally, residents should maintain personal hygiene and ensure that all food and fruit are thoroughly cleaned and cooked before consumption.

"For early anticipation, the public must stay alert and maintain their physical fitness through regular exercise. These steps are similar to the protocols we previously used to prevent the Coronavirus," added Hendra.

Meanwhile, surveillance of international passengers at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has been tightened. The Soekarno-Hatta Health Quarantine Center (BBKK) is actively working to prevent the entry of Nipah virus transmission.

"Regardless of the presence of a specific virus, we utilize the 'All Indonesia' system. This system includes a health declaration that travelers must complete before arriving in Indonesia to report their physical condition," said Naning Nugrahini, Head of BBKK Soekarno-Hatta, on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

Naning noted that the strengthening of surveillance and health screening will be dynamically adjusted based on the current situation. Airlines are now required to conduct initial health screenings at the point of departure. Furthermore, health status checks will be enforced for every air traveler.

"We also review which countries they have visited in the last 21 days. Based on the pre-flight declarations, we can summarize and identify the health profile of every passenger arriving in Indonesia," she concluded. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)