Pemkot Surabaya Terbitkan SE Kewaspadaan Virus Nipah, Warga Diminta Perketat PHBS
The city of Surabaya, Indonesia, is increasing its vigilance against the Nipah virus, a rare but potentially deadly disease, with the issuance of a new public health circular. This proactive measure aims to prevent the introduction of the virus and protect the local population.
The Surabaya City Government issued the circular, numbered 400.7.7.1/3316/436.7.2/2026, regarding vigilance against the Nipah virus. According to Lilik Arijanto, Surabaya City Secretary, the circular follows guidance from the Directorate General of Disease Control and Prevention at the Indonesian Ministry of Health, issued on January 30, 2026, with the number HK.02.02/C/445/2026.
“The issuance of this circular is a follow-up to the circular from the Director General of Disease Control and Prevention of the Indonesian Ministry of Health Number HK.02.02/C/445/2026 dated January 30, 2026,” Arijanto stated. Despite the absence of confirmed human cases of Nipah virus in Indonesia to date, officials are urging heightened awareness.
“Based on information from the Ministry of Health, there have been no reports of Nipah virus cases in humans in Indonesia so far. However, vigilance still needs to be increased, considering the geographical proximity and high population mobility with countries that have reported cases of the disease,” Arijanto explained on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
Research indicates the virus has been detected in fruit bats within Indonesia, raising concerns about potential transmission if preventative measures aren’t taken. This finding underscores the importance of public health preparedness, even in the absence of current outbreaks.
The circular details that Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. The virus naturally resides in fruit bats, and transmission can occur through direct contact with infected animals, intermediate hosts, or contaminated food and beverages.
Symptoms of Nipah virus infection can vary, ranging from fever, headache, and muscle pain to weakness, cough, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, respiratory problems or loss of consciousness. Symptoms typically appear several days to weeks after exposure.
“Initial symptoms are often similar to the flu, so the public should not take them lightly. Especially if they have a history of contact with animals or travel to areas that have reported cases of Nipah virus,” Arijanto cautioned.
Several factors can increase the risk of transmission, including consuming raw palm sap (toddy) directly from the tree, contact with the saliva or urine of contaminated animals, consuming fruit bitten by bats, hunting bats, and activity around wild animal markets or fruit plantations.
“the risk is also increased for people who have a history of travel or residence in countries that have reported cases of Nipah virus, such as India, Bangladesh, Singapore, and the Philippines, as well as those who have close contact with people suspected of being infected,” he added.
To prevent the spread of the disease, the Surabaya City Government is urging residents to avoid consuming raw palm sap and ensure It’s thoroughly cooked before consumption. They also recommend washing and peeling fruits before eating, discarding any fruit showing signs of animal bites, and ensuring meat is fully cooked.
“Implementing Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) is very important, starting from washing hands with soap or hand sanitizer, applying cough and sneeze etiquette, to wearing a mask if you are experiencing symptoms of illness,” he explained.
Avoiding direct contact with sick or suspected infected livestock, such as pigs and horses, is also crucial. If contact is unavoidable, the use of appropriate personal protective equipment is required. Authorities also emphasize the importance of avoiding the spread of unverified information and relying on official government sources.
“If there are symptoms that lead to Nipah virus, immediately check with the nearest health facility. Early detection is very important to prevent further transmission,” he emphasized.
The city government is also asking all regional departments, sub-district heads, and village heads to increase vigilance in their respective areas. This includes actively monitoring potential health risks, supporting the dissemination of accurate information, and mobilizing community leaders in early warning efforts.
Residents are also encouraged to improve environmental cleanliness through community clean-up efforts and monitoring areas that could serve as habitats for disease-carrying animals, such as fruit trees frequented by bats. Any information or incidents potentially related to Nipah virus should be reported through local health centers and the Health Department.
“All levels in the regional area must be prepared to facilitate the health team from the Health Department or health centers in carrying out epidemiological tracking and investigation if health intervention is needed,” he concluded. (*)
