Indonesia Strengthens Measles Surveillance Amid Rising Cases

Indonesia is bolstering its measles surveillance and response efforts following a significant increase in cases throughout 2025 and continuing into 2026. Nationwide, concerns are growing as outbreaks occur in multiple provinces, highlighting the critical need for improved immunization coverage and rapid response systems.

Measles Cases in Indonesia: A Growing Concern

According to national data, Indonesia recorded 63,769 suspected measles cases in 2025, with 11,094 laboratory-confirmed cases resulting in 69 deaths, representing a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0.1 percent. As of Week 7 of 2026, the country has reported 8,224 suspected cases, 572 confirmed cases, and 4 deaths (CFR 0.05 percent). Currently, 21 suspected measles outbreaks and 13 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks are being investigated across 17 districts/cities in 11 provinces.

Government Response and Surveillance Strengthening

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is prioritizing a swift and robust response to the rising cases. Acting Director General of Disease Control, Dr. Dr. Andi Saguni, emphasized the highly contagious nature of measles and the necessity for vigilance. “Measles has a very high transmission rate. Any increase in cases must be responded to quickly through robust surveillance and timely reporting,” Dr. Andi stated.

Efforts are underway to strengthen national measles surveillance, including epidemiological investigations within 24 hours of case discovery and real-time reporting through the Early Warning and Response System (SKDR). The Ministry reported a 147 percent increase in suspected measles cases in 2025 compared to 2024, underscoring the urgency of these improvements.

Immunization Coverage and Regional Disparities

While national measles-rubella immunization coverage has exceeded targets, cases persist in areas with low immunization rates. Dr. Mulya Rahma Karyanti, a Consultant in Pediatric Infectious and Tropical Diseases at Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Hospital, explained that the dynamics of measles cases are closely linked to these regional disparities. “Nationally, measles-rubella immunization coverage has exceeded the target, but cases still occur in provinces, districts, and even certain villages with low immunization coverage. It is in these areas that the risk of measles outbreaks is higher,” she said.

Recent Outbreak Control in Sumenep

Despite the national increase, successful outbreak control has been demonstrated in specific regions. Sumenep, a district in East Java, effectively ended a measles outbreak that began around August 2025. The response involved collaboration between the district health office, the Ministry of Health, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Key strategies included strengthening outbreak investigation, improving surveillance, accelerating immunization efforts, conducting root cause analysis, and engaging with local leaders and communities. Vaccine coverage in Sumenep was boosted to 96.1%, contributing to the interruption of measles transmission.

Ongoing Outbreak in Pamekasan Regency

As of January 10, 2026, an outbreak is ongoing in Pamekasan Regency, East Java, driven by low vaccination coverage, with 78% of confirmed cases occurring in unvaccinated individuals.

International Context: Measles Cases in Singapore

The rise in measles cases is not limited to Indonesia. Singapore reported 11 measles cases in January 2026, equaling the total for all of 2024, prompting tighter public health measures.

Looking Ahead

The Indonesian Ministry of Health remains committed to increasing national vigilance through strengthened surveillance, rapid outbreak response, and cross-sector collaboration with local governments. These efforts are crucial to preventing the further spread of measles transmission and protecting the health of Indonesian children.