REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JEMBER -- The eruption of Mount Raung (3.332 meters above sea level) that produce volcanic ashes cause the upper respiratory infections (ISPA). The number of people infected in Jember, East Java, increased over the last few weeks.

“Patients with ISPA increased 20 percent up to 25 percent, whereas, before Mount Raung has alert status, the patients are only 15 people up to 20 people per day,” said Head of Public Relations of Jember Health Office, Yumarlis, Tuesday (4/8).

He explained that, the increase of number of patients with respiratory infection was high in three areas, namely Silo, Sumberjambe, and Ledokombo.

"There is an increase about 20 up to 25 percent per day at three sub districts, Silo, Ledokombo, and Sumberjambe," he said.

Although the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has distributed masks, ISPA attacks still cannot be overcame. It is because the volcanic ashes are often flushed Jember.

"Volcanic ashes can cause respiratory infection and also create irritation in the eyes. But, the case of eye irritation are not as many as respiratory infections," he said.

The Department of Health has distributed medicines for ISPA and eye irritation to a number of health centers.

"The local health center may also ask for masks to the Department of Health. It is not only for the three areas, but also for all areas that are affected by the volcanic ashes from Mount Raung,” he continued.

He asked the citizens to keep wearing masks and glasses while having outside activities. So they will not be affected by the respiratory infection and the eye irritation.

"We also suggested that the citizens should close the water reservoirs, so it is not going to be contaminated with the volcanic ashes," he said.