Measles-Infected Influencer Who Still Went Out: Health Ministry Urges Caution

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has responded to influencer Ruce Nuenda’s decision to remain active in public spaces despite being infected with measles, a disease known for its high contagion. Acting Director-General for Disease Prevention and Control at the Ministry of Health, Andi Saguni, said measles is highly contagious. ‘From one person, it can spread to 12 to 18 people around them at the same time,’ he told reporters during a virtual press briefing updating on Measles Cases in Indonesia on Friday, 6 March 2026. He urged individuals who are sick with measles to limit outdoor activities until they have fully recovered so as not to transmit the disease to family or others. ‘Public figures should set a good example to the public. As influencers, they should not do that as it could influence public perception and behaviour,’ he said. He also urged people who may have been in contact with the public figure while they were ill to monitor their health independently. If fever occurs, especially with a rash on the skin, he asked those individuals to seek care at a health facility. ‘If you did meet the person while they were ill, you should monitor your health; for example, if you develop a fever, particularly if there is a rash, you should seek immediate medical attention at a health facility,’ Saguni said.