Measles Resurgence in Indonesia: Risks, Prevention, and the Impact on Children’s Health

Indonesia is facing a concerning rise in measles cases, prompting health officials to bolster immunization efforts. Although often perceived as a mild childhood illness, measles can lead to serious complications and even death, particularly in vulnerable populations. This article examines the current situation, the risks associated with measles, and the importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks.

The Current Situation: Rising Cases and Concerns

Confirmed measles cases in Indonesia reached 11,094 in 2025, with over 63,769 suspected cases [1]. In the first five weeks of 2026, 379 confirmed cases and 5,329 suspected cases have been reported [1]. Laboratory capacity is strained, hindering accurate case confirmation, with a positivity rate of 24.6% in 2025 [1]. This suggests the actual number of cases may be significantly higher.

Understanding the Risks: Measles is Not a Mild Disease

Measles is a highly contagious viral respiratory illness spread through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing [1]. It’s crucial to understand that measles is not simply a fever, and rash. The disease can cause a range of severe complications, including:

• Pneumonia: Approximately 77% of children hospitalized with measles develop lung infections [1], and 86% of measles-related deaths are attributed to pneumonia [1].
• Ear Infections: Measles can lead to ear discharge and potentially permanent hearing loss.
• Diarrhea: Severe diarrhea can cause dehydration and increase the risk of death.
• Vitamin A Deficiency: Measles reduces vitamin A levels, making the eyes vulnerable to problems.
• Immunological Amnesia: The measles virus can suppress the immune system, causing it to “forget” how to fight off previously encountered diseases, leaving children susceptible to other infections [1].
• Neurological Complications: In rare cases, measles can lead to long-term neurological damage, such as Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE), a progressive brain disorder that can develop years after the initial infection [1].
• Febrile Seizures: Measles can trigger seizures, potentially affecting the brain.

Children with weakened immune systems due to malnutrition, lack of immunization, or underlying health conditions are at the highest risk of severe complications [1].

The Power of Vaccination: Protecting Individuals and Communities

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles and its complications. A single dose of the measles vaccine provides 93% protection, while two doses offer up to 97% protection [1]. Indonesia’s national immunization schedule recommends two primary doses at 9 and 18 months, with a booster given in the first grade [1].

According to data from 2024, 823,646 Indonesian children have not received the full two doses of the measles vaccine, and 597,446 have received no dose at all [1]. The majority of deaths in 2025 (16 out of 18) occurred in children aged 0-4 years who were either unvaccinated or had received only one dose [1].

Addressing the Challenges and Moving Forward

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is actively strengthening immunization efforts to prevent further outbreaks [1]. Increased awareness campaigns and improved access to vaccination services are crucial to achieving high immunization coverage. The Indonesian Pediatric Association (IDAI) emphasizes the need to address low immunization rates to prevent future health emergencies [2].

Protecting children from measles requires a collective effort from healthcare professionals, government agencies, and communities. Vaccination is not only a personal health decision but also a vital contribution to public health and the well-being of future generations.