Stigma of Covid-19 Runs Deep in Indonesia, Undermines Virus Control Measures

When the virus first spread, Indonesians felt afraid and removed themselves from situations that would put them at risk of being infected, however, that has since changed.

“What I have noticed is that the public has slowly opened up to the idea of the virus as they recognize that it only requires medical treatment.”

Read also: Resurgence of Covid-19 Cases in Indonesia’s Bali and Jakarta Prompts Govt Advice

One of the factors that have pushed the public to become bolder in facing Covid-19 in Indonesia is due to financial pressures.

Many are preoccupied with figuring out how to earn a living and provide for their family if they are forced to be isolated for an undetermined duration in a healthcare facility.

“Most of them understand that getting the Covid-19 virus may bring hardships to their family, but they choose to ignore it as often as possible. Instead, they hope that they won’t be infected.”

(Writer: Irfan Kamil | Editor: Diamanty Meiliana)

Source: https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2020/12/21/15444351/satgas-stigma-negatif-pasien-covid-19-masih-melekat-erat-di-masyarakat