Government Urges People to Stop Touching Babies During Eid al-Fitr to Prevent Measles

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has warned the public to refrain from touching babies to prevent measles during the upcoming Idul Fitri 1447 Hijriah silaturahmi. Acting Director General for Disease Prevention and Control, Andi Saguni, said the habit of touching infants during family visits should be reduced. ‘The habit of touching young children, babies, especially during Lebaran, should indeed be reduced or avoided because of the high risk of transmission,’ he said at a virtual press conference on Friday (6 March 2026). If a child experiences fever or measles symptoms such as a rash, they should be taken to the nearest health facility immediately. ‘Avoid gatherings, especially for those who are ill; if there are signs of suspected measles such as a red rash, it is best not to gather,’ he added. ‘Going to tourist spots and other crowded places should be done at home instead,’ he added. Andi reminded that the potential for a spike in measles transmission could occur during Idul Fitri if not vigilant, particularly among vulnerable groups such as babies and toddlers. Therefore, anyone who is ill is advised to limit outdoor activities until they are declared recovered. ‘So, if you are sick, you should restrain yourself and limit activities until you are fully recovered so that you do not transmit it to family or those around you,’ Andi said.