Indonesia Tightens Health Checks at Airports and Seaports Over Plague Case

Indonesia has strengthened health surveillance at its international entry points after reports that a laboratory worker in Russia died from pneumonia suspected of being linked to plague. The Health Ministry said checks have been intensified at airports and seaports, including in Bali, even though no international health alert has been issued.

Key facts

• Where: international airports and seaports in Indonesia, including Bali
• What is required: health declarations through the SATUSEHAT Health Pass system
• Who may be affected: travellers with symptoms such as fever, coughing or shortness of breath
• International alert: none — no notification through the International Health Regulations National Focal Point or the World Health Organization's Event Information Site

What is changing at the border?

Indonesian authorities are monitoring developments and strengthening preparedness at airports and seaports, according to Aji Muhawarman, head of the Health Ministry's Bureau of Communication and Public Information. Measures include health declarations through the SATUSEHAT Health Pass system, monitoring travellers for symptoms, risk-based assessments of incoming vessels and surveillance of rodents and fleas.

What happens if I have symptoms?

Travellers showing symptoms such as fever, coughing or shortness of breath may be referred to designated infectious disease hospitals for isolation and treatment, the Health Ministry said. The source does not state which hospitals are designated or how long isolation may last.

Why is this happening?

The measures follow the death of a 28-year-old employee of Russia's Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute in Siberia. Russian authorities said she died from "pneumonia of unknown etiology" and that testing found no microorganisms linked to her professional activities. Nearly 200 contacts have reportedly been placed under medical observation as investigations continue.

Is there an international health alert?

No. Aji Muhawarman said there had so far been no notification through the International Health Regulations National Focal Point or the World Health Organization's Event Information Site that would require specific vigilance. Despite the absence of an international alert, Indonesian authorities have moved ahead with intensified checks.

What this means for travellers

Travellers arriving at Indonesian international airports and seaports, including in Bali, should expect health screening and complete the SATUSEHAT Health Pass health declaration. Anyone experiencing fever, coughing or shortness of breath may be referred to a designated infectious disease hospital for isolation and treatment.

Indonesian authorities said they are continuing to monitor the situation in Russia. No further changes to entry procedures have been announced in the source.