New Covid-19 Virus Variant Found in Indonesia, Most Cases in Central Java

Three new variants of the COVID-19 virus have entered Indonesia: B.1.617.2 from India (Delta), B.1.1.7 from the UK (Alpha), and B.1.351 from South Africa (Beta). The new COVID-19 variants are most prevalent in Central Java, with 76 cases reported on Sunday, June 13, 2021.

Forty-eight cases were also found in Jakarta. This includes 24 Alpha variant cases, four Beta variant cases, and 20 Delta variant cases. The spread in other provinces remains relatively low.

South Sumatra has four cases of the new variants, while East Java, Central Kalimantan, and East Kalimantan each have three cases. North Sumatra and West Java each have two cases, and Kepulauan Riau, Riau, Bali, and South Kalimantan each have one case.

Based on the number of variants detected, Indonesia has identified 36 Alpha variant cases, five Beta variant cases, and 104 Delta variant cases. The Delta variant is suspected to have a higher transmission rate than previous coronavirus strains.

Therefore, the public must remain vigilant and adhere to health protocols when engaging in outdoor activities. Wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, avoiding crowds, and washing hands with soap (3M) are mandatory.