Good news for Indonesians amid the COVID-19 pandemic, starting May 18, 2022, President Jokowi has lifted the mask mandate in outdoor spaces. However, certain policies apply only to healthy individuals and in non-crowded settings.
It didn’t stop there. Just a few days later, on May 24, 2022, it was also announced that Jakarta and its surrounding areas (Bodetabek) had successfully lowered the PPKM status from Level 2 to Level 1. With this Level 1 status, school activities, office work, and other sectors are now allowed to resume in-person activities.
Nevertheless, it is essential to consider other factors in maintaining good health by adopting a healthy lifestyle, as explained in the following article.
Mask-free policy
Several countries have already lifted mask mandates, including Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Sweden, Finland, and many more. This step has been taken as part of the transition era from a pandemic to an endemic phase.
As COVID-19 cases in Indonesia steadily decrease, the government has decided to implement a mask-free policy for outdoor activities starting Wednesday, May 18th, 2022. The announcement was delivered by President Jokowi through the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel on Tuesday, May 17th, 2022.
The following are the guidelines of the mask-free policy:
- The outdoor mask mandate is relaxed in non-crowded areas.
- Masks are still required for indoor activities and on public transportation.
- High-risk individuals, including the elderly and those with comorbid conditions, are advised to continue wearing masks.
- Individuals experiencing symptoms of coughs or colds should still wear masks during activities.
- Fully vaccinated domestic and international travelers are no longer required to undergo PCR or antigen tests.
Important Things to Consider
Regarding Indonesia’s outdoor mask-free policy, the head of the COVID-19 Task Force of the Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) expressed support for the policy. However, the public is urged to remain vigilant. With fewer mask restrictions, it is even more important to be highly aware of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Below are several essential considerations to prepare for the government’s mask-free policy.
1. Wash Your Hands Regularly
Although Indonesia has lifted the mask requirement, it is recommended to still follow health protocols, such as washing your hands regularly with soap. This is a simple habit but highly effective in reducing the risk of virus transmission, as your hands can easily carry bacteria and viruses, especially after being in crowded places.
Moreover, if you unknowingly touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with unclean hands, bacteria and viruses can easily enter the body and cause diseases.
2. Get Vaccinated
To help succeed with a mask-free policy, getting vaccinated is recommended. A study indicated that vaccination can prevent an individual from being infected compared to people who are unvaccinated.
Even if an infection occurs, vaccinated people tend to experience milder symptoms. So, make sure to prepare for vaccination!
3. Maintain Your Immune System
Maintaining the immune system not only helps prevent COVID-19 but also protects against other diseases. When your immune system is weak, viruses tend to attack the body easily. You can maintain the immune system through many steps, such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and increasing vitamin and mineral intake, including vitamin C and D.
You can also take your time to get morning sunlight, which is the main source of vitamin D.
4. Stay Hydrated
Keeping your body hydrated is also essential. Make sure to drink #AQUADULU at least eight glasses per day or around two liters. The benefits of mineral water vary, starting from supporting healthy digestion, replacing lost fluids, and protecting the body against various diseases.
Therefore, make sure to always have AQUA wherever you are to keep your body properly hydrated.
