Measles Risk Rises in Indonesia Ahead of Eid al-Fitr Holiday

Indonesia’s Ministry of Health is urging increased vigilance against measles transmission as the country prepares for the Eid al-Fitr holiday and the associated surge in public mobility. Authorities are concerned that increased crowding and travel will elevate the risk of infection, particularly among children who are not fully immunized.

Measles Cases in Early 2026

As of the eighth week of 2026, Indonesia had recorded 10,453 suspected measles cases, with 8,372 confirmed and 6 deaths . Forty-five measles outbreaks were identified across 29 districts and cities in 11 provinces, including North Sumatra, West Sumatra, South Sumatra, Banten, West Java, Central Java, Yogyakarta, East Java, West Nusa Tenggara, South Sulawesi and Central Sulawesi .

Government Response and Vaccination Efforts

While measles cases began to decline in February 2026, the government is maintaining a rapid response to prevent further spread. The Ministry of Health is accelerating the implementation of Outbreak Response Immunization (ORI) and a Catch-Up Campaign for measles-rubella (MR) immunization in affected and high-risk areas . This program will be carried out in 102 regencies and cities throughout March 2026, targeting children aged 9–59 months .

Immunization services are being offered through various channels, including community health centers, integrated health posts (posyandu), educational units, places of worship, and homecoming service posts .

Health Ministry Recommendations

“We encourage parents to immediately check their children’s immunization status and complete it if it’s incomplete. Immunization is the most effective protection against measles,” stated Andi Saguni, Director General of Disease Prevention and Control at the Ministry of Health .

Coordination for Eid Travel Health Services

In related news, the Indonesian government is also strengthening health services at major transportation hubs in preparation for the 2026 Eid al-Fitr travel season. The Transportation and Health Ministries are coordinating to ensure safe and smooth journeys for travelers, including expanding medical facilities and improving emergency response systems . Health checks for drivers, including blood pressure screening and urine tests, will also be conducted .