The Role of Environmental Sanitation in Reducing Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Cases In Surakarta: A Perspective of Environmental Engineering through a Radio Talk Show

Abstract

Surakarta is facing the problem of increasing cases of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF), which is partly influenced by suboptimal environmental sanitation conditions. As part of the effort to address this issue, the Environmental Engineering Study Program of Universitas Kristen Teknologi Solo, in collaboration with Radio Immanuel, organized a talk show themed "The Impact of Environmental Sanitation on DHF Incidence in Surakarta." This event featured three main speakers: Yonathan Suryo Pambudi, Elvis Umbu Lolo, and Cicik Sudaryantingsih, who provided a deeper understanding to the public about the relationship between inadequate environmental sanitation and the spread of DHF, as well as the necessary steps to prevent it.

The talk show discussed the impact of poorly managed sanitation—such as clogged drainage systems and improperly covered water storage—that can create breeding grounds for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the vector responsible for DHF. In addition, practical solutions that can be implemented by the community to improve their environmental sanitation were also discussed, including maintaining clean water storage containers and conducting community-driven efforts to clean drainage systems and surrounding environments.

The results of this activity show that the majority of listeners have become more aware of the importance of environmental sanitation in the prevention of DHF. However, challenges in consistently applying healthy and clean habits still persist. Therefore, continuous educational programs are needed to raise public awareness and improve sanitation conditions in Surakarta.