Indonesia Ranks Second Globally for Measles Cases; Indonesian Paediatric Association Declares Immunisation Emergency
The Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI) has sounded a sharp alarm regarding the alarming surge in measles cases at the beginning of 2026. Based on the latest data, Indonesia now ranks second globally for the highest number of measles cases, a grim reality that has triggered urgent calls for action from various quarters.
As of the seventh week of 2026, a total of 8,224 suspected measles cases have been recorded in the country. Of this number, 572 cases have been confirmed through laboratory testing with a death toll of four.
This situation represents a continuation of the crisis from 2025, which recorded 63,769 suspected cases and 69 deaths.
Piprim Basarah Yanuarso, Chairman of the IDAI Central Board, has stressed that this situation requires extraordinary measures. Citing WHO data released by the CDC in February 2026, Indonesia ranks second globally with 10,744 cases, behind Yemen but higher than India.
“We must act quickly to protect Indonesian children. Immunisation is a fundamental right of children and our obligation to ensure every child is protected. Deaths from measles are deaths that should never happen,” Piprim stated.
The primary trigger for this explosion in cases is the low coverage of the second dose of measles-rubella immunisation (MR2), which only reached 82.3% in 2024. This figure falls far short of the national target of 95% required to establish herd immunity.
Hartono Gunardi, Chairman of the IDAI Immunisation Task Force, explained that the COVID-19 pandemic has created “pockets of vulnerability” due to disruptions to routine immunisation services.
He emphasised that the MR vaccine used in Indonesia is safe, effective, and has undergone rigorous evaluation by the Indonesian Drug and Food Regulatory Authority (BPOM).
IDAI reminds parents that measles is not merely a common rash. Without proper treatment, this virus can trigger fatal complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and death.
Given the absence of a specific antiviral, prevention through immunisation remains the sole primary defence.
“The government has provided vaccines free of charge, and healthcare personnel are ready to serve. Now it depends on our awareness as a nation. Do not delay immunisation, do not ignore symptoms,” Piprim concluded.
The measles outbreak has been detected in at least 73 cities across Indonesia, with case numbers continuing to rise. Parents are urged to remain vigilant.
The Health Office (Dinkes) of Garut Regency has reported 34 confirmed cases of measles in children based on laboratory examination results at the West Java Provincial Health Laboratory.
The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has reminded the public to increase vigilance against measles transmission ahead of the mudik travel period and Eid al-Fitr holidays.
The Ministry of Health has ensured the availability of measles-rubella vaccine (MR vaccine) in Indonesia in safe condition to support the acceleration of immunisation implementation.
The practice of directly touching infants and toddlers during gatherings, particularly during Eid, should be reduced or avoided due to the high risk of transmission.
The government is endeavouring to reduce the death toll among Indonesian pilgrims during the 2026 hajj pilgrimage through a health ritual preparation scheme.