Health Ministry admonishes influencer Ruce Nuenda: One measles patient can infect 12 to 18 people

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has issued a firm response to influencer Ruce Nuenda for continuing to be active in public spaces despite being infected with measles. The ministry reminded that measles is among the most contagious diseases globally.

The Acting Director General for Disease Prevention and Control, Andi Saguni, explained that one measles patient can transmit the virus to 12 to 18 others in a very short time.

He emphasised that individuals with measles must isolate and limit activities outside the home until fully recovered to protect others.

“Measles has a very high transmission rate. From one person it can spread to 12 to 18 people,” Andi said at a Virtual Press Conference on the Update of Measles Cases in Indonesia, held online on Friday (6/3).

He noted that leaving home during the infectious period is highly risky and can create a new cluster of transmission in public places.

The Health Ministry criticised Ruce Nuenda’s action of sharing moments of outdoor exercise on Instagram Story, including photos of red rashes on hands and feet. As a public figure, Ruce should set an example in adhering to health protocols.

“As an influencer, they should not do that, because it could influence public perception and behaviour,” Andi said.

For members of the public who think they may have met or been at the same location as the influencer during his illness, the ministry urged self-monitoring of health.

If fever with a red rash on the skin appears, citizens are advised to promptly visit the nearest health service facility. This is crucial to prevent further complications, especially for vulnerable groups such as unvaccinated children and pregnant women who are at higher risk if exposed to the measles virus.

Previously, Nuenda’s post drew widespread condemnation from netizens. Many viewed the action as selfish and a threat to public safety, given that the measles virus can be airborne for a period.

The Health Minister, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, reminded the importance of immunisation to curb measles transmission that continues to trigger extraordinary events (KLB) in several regions.