Beware of Measles Symptoms: Recognise 3 Stages and the Importance of Complete Immunisation
Measles still poses a serious threat to children’s health in Indonesia due to its extremely high transmissibility. The Chair of the Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) in West Java, Prof. Dr. dr. Anggraini Alam, Sp.A, Subsp.IPT (K), has reminded parents to be vigilant about the three characteristic stages of symptoms that appear when a child is infected with this virus.
In an online media seminar on Saturday (5/4), Prof. Anggraini explained that measles is not just an ordinary rash, but a systemic disease that develops through certain phases. Understanding these phases is crucial so that medical treatment can be carried out on time and prevent wider transmission.
According to Prof. Anggraini, the course of measles is divided into three main stages, starting from initial symptoms resembling the flu to the characteristic recovery phase.
One thing to be wary of is the airborne nature of the measles virus. Prof. Anggraini emphasised that transmission does not require direct contact, but occurs through droplets when the sufferer coughs, sneezes, or even simply speaks.
‘Measles transmission is no joke. It’s similar to TB; imagine one person can infect 18 others,’ said Prof. Anggraini.
This virus can linger in the air for more than two hours and survive on object surfaces or dust, especially in humid environments with poor ventilation.
The incubation period of this virus can reach three weeks. This means a person may already be carrying the virus without showing any symptoms, yet still have the potential to transmit it to those around them.
To prevent an Extraordinary Event (KLB), a region must achieve group immunity (herd immunity) of at least 94%. If immunisation coverage is below that figure, the risk of a sharp increase in measles cases will rise dramatically.
The government has set a measles immunisation schedule of three doses to ensure optimal protection for children.
Prof. Anggraini urged parents to immediately complete their children’s immunisation status, especially before entering Early Childhood Education (PAUD).
‘One case of measles alone can spread everywhere. If any doses are missed, immediately catch up with immunisation,’ she concluded.
The Indonesian Doctors Association (PAPDI) revealed that 8% of measles cases in Indonesia affect adults. Consider the causes of declining immunity and the importance of adult vaccination.
The Ministry of Health stated that up to the ninth week of 2026, measles cases in Indonesia have decreased to 511 from the previous 531 cases.
Based on Ministry of Health data up to the eighth week of 2026, there were 10,453 suspected measles cases, with 8,372 confirmed cases and six deaths.
The ideal time for vaccination is at least 14 days or two weeks before departure to ensure optimal protection during holidays.
The recent surge in measles cases is seen as an indicator of declining group immunity or herd immunity in society.