187 Suspects, 2 Confirmed: Makassar Prepares Mass Immunisation Amid Measles Outbreak Alert
South Sulawesi’s Health Office has recorded a serious threat of measles transmission in Makassar throughout 2026. A total of 187 suspected cases have been reported, with two confirmed as measles positive through laboratory examination.
The Head of South Sulawesi’s Health Office, Evi Mustikawati Arifin, revealed that hundreds of other samples are still under laboratory examination to confirm diagnoses.
“In 2026, Makassar has recorded 2 confirmed measles cases, but there are 187 suspected cases currently awaiting laboratory test results,” she explained.
Most concerning is that Makassar ranks among the top 10 districts and cities in Indonesia experiencing a measles outbreak, or KLB, for two consecutive years—in 2025 and 2026.
Previously in 2025, Makassar city recorded 183 measles cases, whilst Sinjai District reported 10 cases.
The age group most vulnerable to measles is children aged 6 months to 5 years, with the highest risk occurring between 9 and 24 months, particularly those who have not received complete immunisation.
“Factors influencing measles transmission include immunisation status, age, nutritional status, immune function, residential density, as well as mobility and social interaction,” Evi explained.
Measles is not a mild illness. This Morbillivirus infection is highly contagious—even more transmissible than influenza or COVID-19.
One infected person can transmit the virus to 12-18 other people through respiratory droplets when coughing or sneezing. The virus can also remain airborne and on surfaces for up to two hours.
Measles complications can be fatal, including pneumonia, the most common cause of death; severe diarrhoea; encephalitis; middle ear infection; and malnutrition. Children with poor nutrition or immune disorders face significantly higher mortality risks.
In response to this situation, South Sulawesi’s Health Office has issued a measles alert circular to all districts and cities. This step is coupled with strengthening health services and cross-regional coordination.
Makassar and Sinjai have been designated as priority areas for implementing Outbreak Response Immunisation (ORI), or mass immunisation, as a precautionary measure should cases increase further.
This programme aligns with the Health Ministry’s directive to intensify simultaneous catch-up immunisation in outbreak-affected areas.
“Our Health Office has coordinated with all districts and cities regarding this outbreak,” Evi stressed.
The availability of measles vaccine at health facilities is ensured to be safe. Routine immunisation programmes continue to be intensified across 24 districts and cities to enhance child protection.
Amidst heightened vigilance, the Health Office is also addressing widespread misinformation in the community regarding measles transmission. One prevalent myth is the belief that measles spreads only through touch or even through wind and bathing water.
“What is essential is that we disseminate correct knowledge and accurate education about how measles is transmitted, which we must understand collectively, rather than hoaxes and such,” Evi stressed.
The public is urged not to easily believe information from unclear sources, particularly those opposing immunisation. Parents should ensure children receive complete MR (Measles-Rubella) immunisation according to schedule—at 9 months, 18 months, and in grade 1 of primary school.
If a child shows symptoms of high fever accompanied by cough, runny nose, red eyes, and subsequently develops a red rash, seek examination at the nearest health facility immediately. Early detection and rapid treatment can prevent life-threatening complications.