Immunisation is Key to Preventing Measles

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has emphasised that measles-rubella (MR) immunisation represents the most effective step to prevent measles transmission.

The Acting Director General for Disease Control at Kemenkes, Dr Andi Saguni, stated that national immunisation achievement is being continuously increased to protect the public from the disease.

“Measles prevention relies heavily on complete and equitable immunisation. When coverage is high and no region is left behind, the chain of transmission can be stopped,” said Andi Saguni on Friday (27 February).

He added that Kemenkes is strengthening routine, catch-up, and supplementary immunisation, particularly in regions with low coverage.

Dr Mulya Rahma Karyanti, a consultant in infectious and tropical diseases for children at the Department of Child Health Sciences at Dr Cipto Mangunkusumo National Central Hospital, emphasised the importance of monitoring immunisation achievement down to village level.

“Nationally, MR immunisation achievement has exceeded targets, but measles cases can still occur if certain villages or regions have low coverage. These pockets are where prevention efforts must focus,” explained Dr Mulya.

Beyond immunisation, the government is also strengthening education on clean and healthy living practices and increasing public awareness of measles symptoms. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance disease surveillance and prevention across the nation, particularly following cases reported among international travellers from Australia who had recently visited Jakarta and Bandung.