READINESS OF SUB-DISTRICTS IN PALU CITY, CENTRAL SULAWESI PROVINCE, INDONESIA, TO FACE THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Indonesia confirmed its first case of COVID-19 on 2 March 2020. Several provinces in Indonesia, including Central Sulawesi, experienced local transmission of the virus. This study aimed to explore the readiness and understanding of the sub-district government in handling COVID-19. This study was conducted from April to June 2020 using a cross-sectional design. Interviews were performed by distributing a closed questionnaire to the heads or secretaries of sub-districts in Palu City. The parameters of this study were the COVID-19 alert village indicators issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The results show that all sub-districts in Palu City have formed the COVID-19 Alert Task Force, which socialized clean and healthy living as well as sterilized public and social facilities. Forty-five (97.82% ) sub-districts had provided information about the nearest public health centers (Puskesmas) or clinics where residents receive medical treatment when getting sick. Meanwhile, 39 (84.8%) sub-districts had created and activated WhatsApp groups to handle COVID-19. In general, sub-districts in Palu City have been ready to face the COVID-1 9 pandemic, as they have carried out COVID-19 prevention and handling activities following the guidelines.