BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has reactivated thermal scanners and body temperature screening equipment at its terminals as a precautionary measure following reports of the spread of influenza A (H3N2) subclade K, commonly referred to as “super flu,” in several parts of Indonesia.
General Manager Nugroho Jati said the devices, which were previously used during the COVID-19 pandemic, are now back on standby and operational.
“The thermal scanners we used during the pandemic are ready and have been reactivated starting now,” Nugroho said on Monday, January 5, 2026.
The temperature screening systems are being installed at both domestic and international terminals, covering main passenger flow areas for arrivals and departures.
“They are placed in both domestic and international terminals, along the main passenger routes for arrivals and departures,” he explained.
As one of Bali’s primary gateways, Ngurah Rai Airport has taken early preventive steps to reduce potential health risks. Nugroho noted that symptoms of the H3N2 influenza variant are similar to those of common flu, with elevated body temperature among the key indicators.
“Based on the information we have studied, the symptoms are quite similar to ordinary flu. That makes temperature monitoring an important early detection measure,” he said.
Nugroho added that all supporting equipment and systems are currently functioning properly. However, the airport authority will continue to coordinate and await further official guidance from the Ministry of Health regarding additional health protocols or policy adjustments.
According to data released by the Ministry of Health, cases of influenza A (H3N2) subclade K have been detected in Indonesia as of December 25, 2025. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) identified 62 confirmed cases across eight provinces.
Director of Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health Prima Yosephine said current assessments indicate no increase in severity.
“Based on the World Health Organization’s assessment and available epidemiological data, influenza A (H3N2) subclade K does not show increased severity,” she said, referring to guidance from the World Health Organization.
Airport authorities emphasized that the reactivation of thermal scanners is a precautionary step to support early detection and maintain public health vigilance, particularly given Bali’s high volume of domestic and international travelers.