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THE COVID-19 Task Force conveyed that air travelers from and to the Java-Bali islands and PPKM level 3 and 4 areas must include a negative PCR test certificate.
“Using the results of the PCR test, of course, has a higher accuracy than the rapid antigen test,” said Spokesperson for the COVID-19 Handling Task Force Prof. Wiku Adisasmito at a press conference on Domestic Travel Arrangements Along with the COVID-19 Slowdown which was followed online in Jakarta, Thursday (10/21).
He said the certificate of negative PCR test results, the samples were taken within a maximum period of 2 x 24 hours.
Wiku said that the tightening of the testing method into the PCR test was because at this time there was no longer full capacity seat distancing applied.
The application, he continued, was part of a trial of easing mobility for the sake of economic recovery in the midst of fairly controlled case conditions.
“PCR is a standard good testing method and is more sensitive than rapid antigen in capturing positive cases,” he said.
Wiku also said that air travelers on the island of Java-Bali and the PPKM level 3 and 4 areas are also required to show a vaccine card at least for the first dose of vaccination.
“For the mode of air transportation, it is mandatory to show two documents, namely a vaccine card at least the first dose and a certificate of negative PCR test results,” he said.
To optimize prevention efforts in air transportation, Wiku added, the airline is required to prepare three rows of vacated seats for separation if it is found that travelers experience symptoms while traveling.
Wiku said that the latest regulation for domestic travelers was made based on a cross-sectoral decision that took into account the current condition of the case and the readiness of facilities and infrastructure to support the implementation of health protocols in the field.
“This decision is stated in various policies, namely the Task Force Circular Number 21 of 2021, the Instruction of the Minister of Home Affairs Number 53 and 54 of 2021, and the Circular Letter of the Ministry of Transportation Number 88 of 2021,” he concluded. [antaranews/photo special]
