The Influence of Social and Environmental Factors on The Spread of Infectious Diseases in Nunukan

Abstract

The research was conducted with the aim of analyzing the impact of social and environmental factors on the spread of infectious diseases in Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan. Nunukan Regency is facing considerable health challenges due to the high number of cases of infectious diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, tuberculosis, and sexually transmitted infections in the region. This study applies qualitative methods through in-depth interviews with health workers, community leaders, and local residents to find factors that have an impact on the spread of infectious diseases.The findings of the study show that the high number of cases of infectious diseases in the region is caused by poor sanitation conditions, limited access to health services, and low public awareness. Apart from these factors, the high mobility of the population due to the proximity to Malaysia also contributes to accelerating the spread of the disease. Protections that need to be provided, such as eradicating mosquito nests to prevent dengue fever, distributing mosquito nets to prevent malaria, and holding health campaigns to raise awareness of the importance of maintaining hygiene, must be increased. Lowering social stigma against people with tuberculosis and sexually transmitted infections is important so that the treatment process can run faster. This study suggests that it is necessary to increase access to health services and distribute more equitable educational programs, especially in remote areas, in order to accelerate efforts to control infectious diseases in Nunukan Regency.