Malaria common at Tanjung Lesung

Over the last few months my family and I have visited Tanjung Lesung on the Sunda Straits three times. The tranquility and natural beauty of this area, less than three hours drive from Jakarta, is truly remarkable. Unfortunately, on the last occasion, both my wife and myself contracted malaria.

The fact that both my wife and myself caught malaria is, perhaps, an indication that the incidence of the disease at Tanjung Lesung is very high. Indeed, subsequently it has been confirmed to me that a number of local people, including staff members at the Tanjung Lesung Cottage Hotel, have died from malaria. It has also come to my attention that guests at the hotel have suffered from the disease and that in at least one case death resulted.

Farsi parum is the variety of malaria endemic to Tanjung Lesung. It can be effectively treated in hospital with quinine and antibiotics; but should not be under-estimated as it is a dangerous and debilitating disease.

Because of the high incidence of malaria at Tanjung Lesung one would think that it is incumbent upon the government, health insurance companies and Tanjung Lesung Cottage Hotel to inform the public of the risk. The hotel and the Tanjung Lesung Sailing Club should act responsibly and, at the very least, advise all guests to take prophylactics before and after their visit. They could spray insecticide over a wide area to reduce the mosquito population and thereby lessen the risk of the disease to locals and guests alike.

FRANK RICHARDSON

Jakarta