Ministry of Health Prepares Measles Vaccination for Healthcare Workers in 10 Priority Regions

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) is refining plans to administer measles vaccinations to healthcare workers (nakes). This step is taken as an additional protection measure following the increased risk of virus transmission to adults.

Deputy Minister of Health, Dante Saksono Harbuwono, explained that the implementation of this policy is still awaiting the green light from the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM). The primary focus at present is to ensure the efficacy of the measles vaccine when given to adults.

“The most important thing is actually its indication for use. So far, the measles vaccine has been intended for children, but there are studies for adults. We are waiting for clarification from BPOM that this vaccine is indeed effective for adults,” said Dante on Wednesday (1/4).

Once official approval is obtained from BPOM, Kemenkes will promptly roll out the vaccination programme for nakes, particularly those working in healthcare facilities with high exposure risks.

In the initial stage, the programme will be prioritised in 10 regions with the highest measles case numbers in Indonesia, namely: [Note: Specific regions not listed in the provided article].

“After high vaccination coverage is achieved, an evaluation will be conducted for the possibility of expansion to other regions,” added Dante.

Based on Kemenkes data, although the majority of measles cases affect toddlers, around 8 percent of recorded cases affect adults. The most vulnerable groups are those with low immunity, sufferers of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer, and healthcare workers who have high exposure intensity to patients.

Acting Director General of Disease Control and Prevention at Kemenkes, Andi Saguni, previously stated that optimal protection is actually obtained through two doses of measles-rubella immunisation at 18 months and in first grade of primary school. However, the high risk in medical environments makes additional vaccination for nakes crucial.

In addition to vaccination interventions, Kemenkes continues to promote the strengthening of Clean and Healthy Living Behaviours (PHBS) in medical environments. The use of masks when handling patients and discipline in handwashing remain the frontline defence in preventing virus transmission in healthcare facilities.