Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism has urged tourism industry players to strictly enforce health and safety protocols to prevent the spread of influenza A (H3N2) subclade K, commonly referred to as the “super flu.”
The ministry emphasized the implementation of CHSE standards Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and Environmental Sustainability as a key preventive measure.
“CHSE protocols must always be implemented,” said Fadjar Hutomo, Crisis Management Adviser at the Ministry of Tourism, in Denpasar on Wednesday, as reported by RadarBali.
He explained that circular letters had been distributed to local governments, destination managers, and tourism operators ahead of the 2026 Christmas and New Year holidays, reminding them to maintain CHSE compliance and obtain official certification where required.
Tourism operators can obtain CHSE certification under Indonesia’s National Standard SNI 9042:2021 through accredited professional certification bodies. The certification ensures hygiene standards, safety measures, and preparedness to accommodate increased visitor numbers.
Temperature Screening
As Bali’s main international gateway, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has reactivated thermal scanners originally installed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The devices are being used again to detect passengers who may show symptoms of super flu.
General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Nugroho Jati, explained that super flu symptoms are generally similar to those of common influenza, making temperature screening an effective early detection measure.
According to Antaranews, “I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport is a major international gateway with a large number of users. Based on the symptoms we have studied, they are similar to common flu, but detection becomes clearer when body temperature is high,” Nugroho said, as quoted by Antara on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
He confirmed that around 25 thermal scanners are installed and operating properly at key arrival and departure routes for both international and domestic flights.
Currently, the airport, which serves an average of 66,000 passengers per day, has not detected any passengers suspected of carrying super flu. Nevertheless, preventive measures remain in place, including temperature screening and coordination with the Indonesian Quarantine Agency and the Port Health Office.
“For now, we are coordinating with relevant health authorities. The situation remains mild, and precautionary measures are still in the form of advisories, with no special protocols implemented yet,” Nugroho said.
Similar to Common Influenza
Meanwhile, although Indonesia’s Ministry of Health recorded 62 cases of influenza A (H3N2) subclade K nationwide as of late December 2025, Bali has reported zero cases. The Bali Provincial Health Office continues to monitor developments and maintain vigilance.
Head of the Bali Provincial Health Office, dr. I Nyoman Gde Anom, urged the public to remain cautious and maintain healthy lifestyles.
“As of today, Bali has recorded zero cases. However, we continue to remind the public to strengthen their immunity through clean and healthy living behaviors, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate rest,” he said.
Head of Disease Prevention and Control (P2P) at the Bali Health Office, dr. I Gusti Ayu Raka Susanti, noted that the Ministry of Health has not yet issued any official circular or specific public guidance regarding super flu.
Clinically, the symptoms remain similar to common influenza, including fever, cough, runny nose, headache, and sore throat, with pregnant women, the elderly, and children considered more vulnerable.
The Ministry of Health emphasized that the situation remains under control and is far less severe than Covid-19. Bali’s healthcare facilities are considered well prepared, drawing on extensive experience from handling the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Healthcare facilities in Bali are always ready to handle any form of influenza. Our surveillance and response systems have been tested,” Raka Susanti emphasized.
Residents experiencing persistent flu symptoms are advised to seek medical attention, while mask use is encouraged for those who are ill or in crowded areas.
Sources : Metrotvnews, Antaranews, Radarbali.id
Feat Image : via AntaraNews//Ni Putu Putri Muliantari