South Sumatra Health Department reports 809 measles cases as of 26 May 2026

Palembang - The South Sumatra Health Department (Dinkes Sumsel) has recorded 809 confirmed measles cases out of 2,882 suspected cases from January to 26 May 2026. Head of Disease Prevention and Control (P2P) at South Sumatra Health Department, Ira Primadesa Ogatiyah, said in Palembang on Friday that measles cases have decreased compared to the previous quarter after rising from January to April 2026. “According to South Sumatra Health Department data as of 26 May 2026, measles cases have declined compared to the previous quarter. This is the result of hard work by health workers, posyandu cadres, and active community participation,” she said. She explained that the highest number of confirmed cases was in Palembang City, with 442 positive cases out of 1,495 suspected. Prabumulih City recorded 57 positive cases from 195 suspected, Musi Rawas had 54 positive from 140 suspected, while Muara Enim and Ogan Ilir each reported 39 positive cases. Meanwhile, Musi Rawas Utara Regency reported 34 positive cases from 67 suspected, Musi Banyuasin had 33 positive from 100 suspected, Lubuklinggau recorded 31 positive from 74 suspected, and Banyuasin had 29 positive from 222 suspected. “Only Pagar Alam, East OKU, and South OKU reported zero positive measles cases,” she explained. To curb potential increases, the South Sumatra Health Department continues its full immunisation programme, particularly the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine, which begins at nine months of age as per schedule. Parents whose children have not been vaccinated are urged to visit the nearest health centre, posyandu, or healthcare facility as catch-up vaccinations are still available free of charge. The public is also advised to seek medical attention immediately if experiencing measles symptoms such as high fever, red skin rash, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. “Do not wait until it worsens. Take them to a health centre or hospital immediately for prompt treatment and to prevent transmission,” she said. Ira also urged the public to practice healthy living behaviours (PHBS) and temporarily isolate sick children to prevent spreading the disease to others. “This decline in cases must be maintained. One unvaccinated child could be the starting point of renewed transmission,” she said.