Godzilla El Niño Looms, These Health Risks Need to Be Watched

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) predicts that Indonesia will enter the Godzilla El Niño phase, which has the potential to make the weather even hotter and drier in the coming months. This condition carries certain health risks that need to be heeded, especially for vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. Doctor and health coach Dr Kasim Rasjidi stated that the dry air triggered by El Niño can make the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract dry. This condition then makes the body more susceptible to coughs, colds, acute respiratory tract infections (ISPA), pneumonia, and allergies. “So the respiratory tract will be easily irritated and experience pain. We must not be negligent, especially vulnerable groups must be more vigilant,” said Dr Kasim when contacted by Republika on Thursday (9/4/2026). In addition to the respiratory tract, the public is also at risk of heat stroke and dehydration. He explained that a body lacking fluids makes the blood thicker, thus disrupting blood flow, especially at high temperatures. This risk increases for people using blood pressure or diabetes medications. Drought and extreme heat also increase the risk of viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections. Dr Kasim said that environmental cleanliness is an important factor. “Waste management and home sanitation must be addressed to prevent infections, especially during drought periods,” he said. To prevent these various diseases, Dr Kasim reminded people to maintain adequate fluids and electrolytes. He suggested avoiding drinks that increase urination such as tea and coffee, and regularly consuming water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumber, and lettuce leaves.