US-Israel–Iran conflict prompts Mataram residents to postpone international travel vaccinations
The war between the United States (US) and Israel against Iran is affecting international vaccination services at RSUD Moh Ruslan Hospital in Mataram City, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). The situation is felt mainly by residents planning to travel abroad in the near future.
Eka Nurhayati, the director of RSUD Moh Ruslan, said they had previously targeted maximum revenue from international vaccination services this year. However, rising geopolitical tensions have led some people to postpone their travel plans, causing demand for vaccines to fall.
“(The revenue target) as much as possible. We are optimistic. But once this war started, everyone postpones travel. So we don’t want to set lofty goals for now,” she said on Friday (5/3/2026).
Eka explained that there are several vaccines provided by RSUD Moh Ruslan for residents needing vaccines for travel abroad, including meningitis, yellow fever, and many more.
“After we opened, Alhamdulillah, several prospective pilgrims are using the facility. All vaccines needed for travelling (are here). So whether going to country A, B, C, D, there are requirements, including Umrah; meningitis for Umrah is available,” she said.
According to Eka, not only residents of Mataram, but international residents also show interest in this international vaccination service. The service has also become one of the hospital’s new revenue sources.
“Hospitals are now transforming. They are seeking revenue beyond BPJS patients. One of them is this; it is part of our medical tourism as well,” she added.
In terms of tariffs, prices for international vaccines at RSUD Moh Ruslan are set in accordance with applicable rules. For example, the influenza vaccine costs Rp 305,000, the meningitis vaccine Rp 400,000, and the polio vaccine Rp 250,000.
Ajeng, a resident of Mataram, said she postponed meningitis vaccination after the outbreak of war between the US and Israel with Iran.
“I’m just scared; it’s better to delay for now. Wait for a safe and conducive situation. It isn’t reassuring to push travel,” she said on Friday.
(nor/nor)