NERS NEWS — On Friday, September 18, 2026, a health education activity was conducted as part of the School-Age Children Working Group (POKJA) with the topic of Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS), particularly proper coughing and sneezing etiquette. The activity was held at SD Mabadiul Ulum, Gebang Putih, Surabaya City, and targeted sixth-grade students.
The activity aimed to increase students’ knowledge and skills regarding the importance of implementing PHBS, particularly proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, as an effort to prevent the transmission of respiratory diseases. The materials covered the definition of acute respiratory infections (ARI), modes of ARI transmission, the definition of PHBS, the definition and benefits of proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, when to practice proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, proper coughing and sneezing techniques, and the six steps of handwashing.
The materials were delivered through interactive lectures, question-and-answer sessions, demonstrations, games, and hands-on practice. The speakers demonstrated how to cover the mouth and nose using a tissue or the inner elbow when coughing and sneezing, how to dispose of tissues properly, and the six steps of handwashing. Students were then given the opportunity to practice these techniques directly and participate in games and quizzes to evaluate their understanding of the materials presented.
Throughout the activity, the students participated enthusiastically in the question-and-answer session, games, and practical activities. The activity concluded with a summary, reinforcement to encourage students to practice proper coughing and sneezing etiquette in their daily lives, and a group photo session. After the activity, all group members conducted operasi semut, cleaning and tidying up the activity area.
Through this activity, students are expected to be able to practice proper coughing and sneezing etiquette and develop clean and healthy living habits both at school and at home, thereby helping to reduce the risk of respiratory disease transmission in their surroundings.
Writer: Sekar Ayu Cahyani
