Ministry of Health warns of rising measles cases ahead of the Lebaran holidays

Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) warns of the risk of increased measles transmission ahead of the Lebaran holiday period due to rising mobility and social gatherings.

Acting Director General for Disease Control at Kemenkes, Andi Saguni, said the pattern of measles cases in recent years is closely linked to long holidays that spur people to gather.

‘We observe there is a relationship between these cases and celebrations that involve gatherings. We see a trend over the last five years. Cases tend to rise at the start of the year, then fall, and then rise again around August, September, October, November,’ Andi said at the online press conference Update on Measles Cases in Indonesia held in Jakarta on Friday.

He further explained that the measles trend actually began to show a decline up to week 8 of this year.

Nevertheless, authorities warn of potentially increasing numbers that still need to be watched, especially during long holiday periods.

‘If there is a toddler or someone with suspected symptoms such as fever followed by a measles rash, it would be advisable not to go anywhere yet. Especially with Lebaran holidays approaching, the likelihood of people gathering is high,’ he added.

They noted there were 10,453 suspected measles cases throughout 2026, with an addition of 506 suspects in week 8 compared with the previous week.

Therefore, he again reminded the public to promptly bring family members to health facilities if they experience measles symptoms, and to reduce contact with healthy individuals.

‘If any family member, a child is sick, take them to health service facilities promptly. Minimise contact with healthy people to prevent transmission,’ he said.

Additionally, he urged individuals not to engage in gatherings or crowding if they show signs or symptoms indicative of measles.

Individuals with fever or red rashes should avoid contact with healthy people and self-isolate at home.

‘Especially those with fever and suspected measles signs, such as a rash, should not mingle in crowds, should not visit places, including tourist spots and other crowded venues; they should stay at home,’ emphasised Andi.