In an attempt to prevent the spread of the Influenza A H1N1 (Swine Flu) virus in Indonesia, the government is requiring passengers arriving by air from countries already affected by the virus to wear face masks upon their arrival at the international terminal.  Passengers will also be required to pass through a thermo scanner (to measure body temperature) before exiting the airport.

The new measure was adopted during a high-level Social Welfare meeting chaired by the Coordinating Minister of Public Welfare and attended by the Minister of Health, the Minister of Communication, and a representative from the Foreign Ministry.

The Coordinating Minister for Public Welfare announced that the government would be taking measures to prevent the spread of swine flu between humans after eight indivuals tested positive for the virus after arriving into Indonesia from overseas. The government has decided to monitor report and coordinate efforts to contain the virus.

According to the Press release of Minister of Health, up to 9th July 2009, 52 cases of swine flu have so far been confirmed in Indonesia. – 35 males and 16 females and 1 yet to be identified. Those indentified are 3 foreign nationals. Amongst the first eight infected people, four are Indonesian nationals, three are from Australia and one is a British citizen residing in Australia.  All eight were infected with the virus in Australia or Singapore.

(Source: Ministry of Health, Republic of Indonesia)