Dengue fever remains a major public health concern in many regions of Indonesia. Despite being a long-recognized disease, its cases continue to persist and cause widespread anxiety. As of May 2025, Indonesia’s Ministry of Health recorded more than 56,000 dengue cases and 250 deaths. In Tasikmalaya, 607 cases were reported from January to September, while Batam City Hospital documented 79 cases in 2025 alone.
Professor Eggi Arguni from the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FK-KMK UGM) explained that children remain the most vulnerable group to dengue infection.
“Most dengue cases in Indonesia still occur among children, especially those under the age of ten,” said Professor Arguni on Monday (Oct. 6).
According to her, the rise in dengue cases among children is mainly due to two factors: their underdeveloped immune systems and the high likelihood of exposure in schools and at home. She further noted that infants are also at risk because maternal antibodies can sometimes trigger a stronger immune response when they are infected by the dengue virus.
Professor Arguni pointed out that dengue cases are now spread across all regions of Indonesia, though high endemicity is still concentrated in major cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Denpasar, Makassar, and Medan.
“This is largely due to population density and environmental conditions that favor the breeding of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes,” she explained.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue infection. Professor Arguni stated that treatment remains supportive, including the administration of fluids, fever-reducing medications, and blood transfusions in cases of severe bleeding. Therefore, prevention plays a key role through vector control and mosquito population management.
“One of the most effective measures is the Mosquito Nest Eradication Movement (PSN) based on the 3M Plus principle,” she said.
This approach includes draining, covering, and recycling water containers, along with additional innovations such as breeding fish that eat larvae and conducting fogging when necessary. She also reminded the public to be alert to the activity times of Aedes aegypti, which typically bite between morning and late afternoon.
“Many people still assume dengue mosquitoes are active only at night, but in fact, they are most aggressive from morning to evening, particularly around homes,” she added.
Professor Arguni emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention promptly when fever symptoms appear, as early diagnosis is crucial in dengue management. She advised that patients should visit a health center or hospital immediately for timely treatment, as prompt intervention can prevent severe complications.
Symptoms to watch for include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums or skin bruising, and extreme fatigue.
“If these symptoms occur, patients must be taken to a healthcare facility immediately,” she warned.
On a positive note, Indonesia now has a dengue vaccine available for individuals aged 4 to 60. Although not yet included in the national immunization program, the vaccine can be obtained independently at hospitals or private clinics.
“The vaccine is highly recommended, especially for people living in endemic areas, and is administered in two doses three months apart,” Professor Arguni explained.
She expressed hope that the government would soon include the dengue vaccine in the national program to make it more affordable and accessible.
Concluding the interview, Professor Arguni underlined that dengue infection remains a shared responsibility.
“Dengue continues to be a global health challenge with high morbidity and mortality rates. There is no single most effective prevention method. Every effort counts, from maintaining hygiene and PSN activities to vaccination and public education,” she stressed.
Author: Hanifah
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Illustration: Freepik