Measles Outbreak Spreads Across 24 Regions, Emphasising Immunisation

Thu, 05 Mar 2026, 16:36 WIB | By Indriyani Astuti | Source: MEDIA_INDONESIA | Social Policy

An extraordinary measles outbreak is spreading across several regions of Indonesia. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has stressed the importance of immunisation to prevent transmission and prevent complications from measles, especially in children.

‘One of the most important instruments is immunisation,’ the minister said in Jakarta on Thursday (5 March).

According to the minister, measles vaccination is the most effective way to curb transmission. He urged parents to immunise their children against measles.

Measles is highly contagious and can cause complications among vulnerable groups, particularly toddlers. The risk is grave when children under five contract measles, as it can be fatal.

‘If you are reluctant to immunise, your child will not be protected and may catch it and pass it on to others. So remember that immunisation is not only for your own child, but also for the surrounding community and their peers,’ the minister said.

Data from the Ministry of Health show that the number of suspected measles cases in 2025 reached 63,769, with 67 deaths. In 2026, suspected measles totalled 8,810 with 5 deaths.

According to the data, 67 per cent of confirmed measles cases had no immunisation history.

Regarding the 2025 measles outbreak, it was reported to have occurred in 87 regencies/cities. In 2026, the number declined, with outbreaks occurring in 24 regencies/cities. Several cities and regencies experienced repeated measles outbreaks, including Medan, Deli Serdang, Padang, Garut, Sleman, Jember, Pamekasan, Tangerang, Tojo Una-Una, and Makassar. (Ant/H-4)

The Ministry emphasises that measles is a highly contagious disease. It can cause complications and death if not detected early. Immunisation can prevent it.

The discovery of suspected measles cases in 2025 rose significantly, by 147 percent compared with 2024, making strengthening early warning systems a priority.

In 2024, MR1 coverage stood at 92 percent, while MR2 reached only 82.3 percent.

The City Government of Cilegon declared the status of measles outbreak (KLB) in four districts after 31 positive cases were found in the past week.

From the deaths in Pamekasan alone, it is evident that the case fatality rate (CFR) for measles in Indonesia far exceeds global thresholds.

The Ministry again emphasises that measles is highly contagious. It can cause complications and death if not detected early. Immunisation can prevent it.

The Ministry reports 8,224 suspected measles cases up to March 2026. Check the distribution of KLB areas and the schedule for additional MR immunisation for PAUD/TK children here.

The Ministry of Health reiterates that measles–rubella (MR) immunisation is the most effective step to prevent measles transmission.

Indonesia strengthens immunisation and surveillance after two Australian nationals tested positive for measles following travel from Jakarta and Bandung. Check the case details and the Ministry’s steps here.

By obtaining immunisation, children can be protected from severe complications such as prolonged diarrhoea, serious respiratory problems, and encephalitis.

View JSON | Print