Respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses rise in Indonesian cities

Health authorities in South Tangerang and Banjarbaru have reported significant increases in acute respiratory infections (ISPA). In South Tangerang, the Health Office recorded 6,147 cases of ISPA. Mayor Benyamin Davnie stated that while the region is not affected by smoke from forest and land fires, local incidents such as illegal waste burning have contributed to environmental concerns. The local government is responding by closing illegal waste sites and implementing mass tree-planting programs along riverbanks to improve air quality.

In Banjarbaru, health officials noted a simultaneous rise in both acute diarrhea and ISPA cases during the 41st week of 2026. Data shows 1,184 cases of ISPA and 307 cases of acute diarrhea, marking the highest figures for the year to date. The increase in diarrhea cases has been consistent for four consecutive weeks. In response, the Banjarbaru Health Office is coordinating with local officials and schools to strengthen preventive measures and healthcare services.