NERS NEWS — Surabaya — Efforts to prevent infectious diseases were carried out through a health education session on cough etiquette held in the ICU of Universitas Airlangga Hospital on Thursday (February 19, 2026). This activity targeted patients’ family members as a promotive and preventive measure to reduce the spread of respiratory infections while supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being.
The session, which took place from 11:00 to 11:30 AM (WIB), was organized by Clinical Nursing Practice students from the Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga. The material was delivered interactively through a brief lecture, demonstrations, and a question-and-answer session to help participants better understand and apply proper cough etiquette in their daily lives.
This activity was initiated in response to the persistently high number of respiratory infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, influenza, and COVID-19, which are easily transmitted through droplets released during coughing or sneezing. Limited public awareness regarding proper coughing habits remains one of the contributing factors to disease transmission, particularly in densely populated environments such as hospitals.
During the session, it was explained that coughing is a natural reflex of the body to clear the respiratory tract. However, coughing without proper etiquette can become a medium for transmitting dangerous diseases. Droplets expelled while coughing may contain viruses or bacteria and can spread through the air or contaminate surfaces, posing a risk of infection to others, especially vulnerable groups such as infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised patients.
The presenter also emphasized simple yet essential cough etiquette practices, including covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or the inner elbow, disposing of used tissues in a closed bin immediately, washing hands after coughing, and wearing a mask when feeling unwell. Maintaining physical distance from others was also recommended to reduce the risk of transmission.
Through this activity, the organizers hope that participants will not only understand the importance of proper cough etiquette but also apply it consistently. With increased awareness of clean and healthy living behaviors, it is expected that the transmission of respiratory infectious diseases can be reduced, thereby supporting efforts to improve public health in line with the SDGs targets.
Author: Hanin Salwa Esa Ramadhani
Editor: Nandyta Putri Rahmadhani (Airlangga Nursing Journalist)
