Education and vaccination as investments to prevent measles outbreaks

Jakarta (ANTARA) -

The Chairman of the Adult Immunisation Task Force from the Indonesian Association of Internal Medicine Specialists (PAPDI), Dr. Sukamto Koesnoe, Sp.PD, K-A.I, FINASIM, emphasised the importance of public education and increased vaccination coverage as primary measures to suppress the spread of measles in Indonesia.

The internal medicine specialist consultant in allergy and immunology stated that comprehensive prevention efforts must involve healthcare workers, the government, and the public.

According to Sukamto at the PAPDI Forum and press conference in Jakarta on Tuesday, vaccination represents a form of long-term health investment that is more efficient than the costs incurred if an outbreak occurs.

“If calculated, vaccination is an investment. The cost is far smaller compared to the impacts caused if an outbreak happens,” said Sukamto.

Furthermore, outbreaks of infectious diseases can increase the burden on the healthcare system and affect social and economic conditions.

Sukamto added that low vaccination coverage can open opportunities for the virus to spread more widely, particularly among groups that lack immunity.

Therefore, education is seen as the key to enhancing public understanding and addressing doubts about immunisation.

He stressed that healthcare workers have a strategic role in delivering accurate and easily understandable information to patients.

According to him, active, clear, and persuasive communication from doctors can increase vaccine acceptance, including among communities that were previously hesitant.

PAPDI records show there are more than 6,300 internal medicine specialists across Indonesia who can serve as agents of education in raising public awareness.