Ministry of Health: Risk Gap for Babies Contracting Measles Before Vaccination
Measles has once again become a concern after the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia warned that babies under nine months of age are at very high risk of infection. This is because the measles vaccine can only be administered at that age. This condition makes infants the most vulnerable group to the transmission of this highly contagious disease.
The Ministry of Health explained that the measles immunization schedule starting at nine months is based on scientific considerations regarding the maturity of the infant’s immune system. At that age, the baby’s body is deemed capable of providing an optimal response to the vaccine.
Before that age, the infant’s protection still depends on antibodies obtained from the mother during pregnancy. However, over time, these antibodies will decrease, thereby increasing the risk of infection.
According to the World Health Organization, measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. The virus can spread through droplets when the sufferer coughs or sneezes, and it can even survive in the air or on surfaces for a certain period. This makes unvaccinated babies at high risk of exposure, especially in environments with low immunization coverage.
Ministry of Health data shows that measles cases are still found in various regions in Indonesia, particularly among children. This condition is related to the uneven coverage of complete basic immunization. In addition, disruptions to health services during the COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to the decline in routine immunization rates in several areas.
UNICEF has also noted that the global decline in immunization increases the risk of measles outbreaks in various countries, including Indonesia.
For optimal protection, the measles vaccine is given in two doses:
The administration of the follow-up dose is important to enhance the effectiveness of protection against the measles virus.
The Ministry of Health urges parents not to delay their children’s immunization and to ensure that the vaccination schedule is met on time. In addition to immunization, other preventive measures are also necessary, such as maintaining hygiene, ensuring adequate nutritional intake, and limiting the baby’s contact with sick people.
The government is also continuing to strengthen catch-up immunization programs and surveillance to suppress the spread of this disease. Collaboration between health workers and the community is seen as key to protecting infants who are not yet old enough to receive the vaccine.