Cases of Acute Respiratory Tract Infections (ISPA) in Jakarta are increasing. Data from the Jakarta Provincial Health Agency recorded 1,966,308 cases as of October 2025. The increase in cases began to be identified in July 2025.

Head of Jakarta Health Agency, Ani Ruspitawati said ISPA is the disease with the highest number of visits to the Community Health Center, because it can be transmitted very easily through droplets or aerosol particles in the air.

Ani expla ined the increase in ISPA cases is influenced by several factors. This includes not only air pollution but also the wet dry season this year.

"This condition has an impact on reducing the individual's immune system and increasing the number of biological agents that cause respiratory tract infections in the community," she said, Thursday (10/16).

Ani added that symptoms of acute respiratory infections include coughing, runny nose, sore throat, and fever. Additional symptoms can include nasal congestion, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, sneezing, and a hoarse voice.

"In more severe cases, sufferers may experience shortness of breath which requires immediate medical attention," she explained.

Therefore, the Jakarta Health Agency appealed residents to implement clean and healthy lifestyle to prevent ISPA.

Simple activities such as washing hands with soap and running water, avoiding crowds, wearing a mask when in crowded spaces or public areas, and practicing coughing and sneezing etiquette can help break the chain of disease transmission.

The public is also advised to immediately access health services if they experience cough and cold symptoms, limit activities when they are sick, and avoid exposure to cigarette smoke.

Maintaining immune system is also very important, including by consuming a balanced nutritious diet, getting enough rest, exercising regularly, and managing stress well.

"Implementing clean and healthy lifestyle may prevent ISPA well," she stated.