Indonesia Strengthens Measles Surveillance Following Detection of Imported Cases

Acting Director General for Disease Prevention Andi Saguni said the notification was delivered through the International Health Regulations (IHR) mechanism and was immediately followed by mitigation measures.

“As an immediate response, we are strengthening measles surveillance and intensifying supplementary immunization for school-aged children, particularly in areas that recorded the highest number of cases during the 2025–2026 period,” Saguni said.

The first case involved an 18-year-old woman with a complete vaccination history who traveled on the Jakarta–Perth route in early February. The second case involved a 6-year-old girl with no prior immunization who flew from Jakarta to Sydney in mid-February.

“Both cases were confirmed positive by PCR testing after they developed symptoms including fever and rash,” Saguni said.

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He urged parents and guardians to ensure children receive routine vaccinations on schedule, adopt clean and healthy habits, and seek medical care if symptoms such as fever and rash appear.

Individuals showing symptoms should also limit contact with others to prevent transmission, he added.

The ministry is continuing public outreach campaigns to promote preventive measures, including wearing masks when ill, washing hands with soap, observing proper cough etiquette and maintaining balanced nutrition to support immunity.

According to ministry data, Indonesia recorded 11,094 confirmed measles cases in 2025. As of February 2026, 550 cases had been reported nationwide.

Saguni said the government has not declared a national measles outbreak, but authorities remain vigilant and are monitoring developments closely in coordination with international health partners.

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