BALINEWSID.COM, JAKARTA — Indonesia’s Ministry of Health has stressed that most mild influenza cases can recover on their own without complex medical treatment. Antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir are not intended for common colds or mild flu, but are primarily reserved for patients with severe symptoms and vulnerable groups at higher risk of complications.

Pulmonologist at Sulianti Saroso Hospital, Pompini Agustina Sitompul, said influenza is generally a self-limiting disease, meaning that it can resolve naturally without extensive medical intervention.

“The symptoms of this disease can vary considerably and it can recover on its own. The disease only becomes severe in certain groups,” Pompini said during an online press conference in Jakarta on Monday (Sept. 28, 2026).

Pompini said oseltamivir is not indicated for the common cold or ordinary cough and runny nose. The antiviral may be given to patients with severe influenza, including those experiencing shortness of breath and requiring oxygen support.

“In severe cases characterized by coughing and shortness of breath that require oxygen support, that is when oseltamivir can be given. Research shows that the effectiveness of oseltamivir in mild cases is small,” she said.

Pharmacology expert Dewi Selvina Rosdiana similarly urged the public not to take oseltamivir without a proper medical indication. Unnecessary use of the antiviral can increase the risk of side effects, particularly in children.

Dewi said children taking oseltamivir have a 1.6-times higher risk of experiencing vomiting.

Children With Flu Symptoms Urged to Stay Home

Pediatrician at Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital (RSCM), Mulya Rahma Karyanti, emphasized the importance of limiting children’s activities when they develop cough and cold symptoms to prevent transmission to others.

“Children who have a cough and cold should not go to school. They should rest. If they go to school, they can transmit the infection to healthy children around them,” Karyanti said.

Parents are also advised to separate eating utensils used by children who are sick with flu.

Karyanti urged parents to teach children proper cough etiquette, including covering the mouth and nose with the inner elbow when coughing or sneezing. The measure can help reduce the spread of viruses through droplets or saliva particles.

The Ministry of Health recommends that the public maintain clean and healthy living practices as part of efforts to prevent influenza transmission.

Annual influenza vaccination is also recommended as a long-term preventive measure. The vaccine can be administered to people from six months of age through adulthood.

The ministry therefore advises people with mild flu symptoms not to immediately turn to antiviral medication. Adequate rest and monitoring of symptoms remain important, while medical attention should be sought if signs of severe illness develop.