KBRN, Jakarta: The Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) has urged the public to be vigilant against various diseases caused by extreme weather in Indonesia. The most common symptoms are colds and skin ailments due to contact with rainwater.

"However, there are also more dangerous diseases, such as dengue fever (DBD) and leptospirosis. DBD prevention can start with maintaining a clean home environment to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites," said IDI Chairman Daeng M Faqih in a discussion with PRO3 RRI on Thursday, January 30, 2025, as quoted by rri.co.id.

He added that leptospirosis, also known as "rat urine disease," can be transmitted through skin wounds contaminated with flood water during rainfall. "Do not play or wade in stagnant rainwater to avoid the risk of leptospirosis infection," he advised.

He emphasized that keeping the surroundings around one’s house free from standing water is crucial to avoiding the spread of these illnesses. According to him, using protective measures such as insect repellents or sleeping under nets is important.

Pollution after heavy rains must become a serious concern for society. People need to be more aware of diseases resulting from extreme weather conditions.

For this reason, he advised people to always be cautious and maintain cleanliness in their environments. "Prevention is key to avoiding these diseases," he said. ***