RRI.CO.ID, Bekasi - The Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI) has raised an alarm over the rising number of measles cases across the country. Consequently, they are urging stakeholders to take extraordinary measures to curb the spread.

Data from IDAI shows that in 2025, Indonesia recorded 63,769 suspected cases, with 11,094 confirmed infections and 69 deaths. The trend continues into 2026, as of the seventh week of the year, there have already been 8,224 suspected cases, 572 confirmed cases, and 4 fatalities.

According to World Health Organization (WHO) data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in February 2026, Indonesia ranks second globally for measles cases with 10,747 reports. This placement puts the country behind Yemen and ahead of India.

Chairperson of the IDAI Central Board, Piprim Basarah Yanuarso, emphasized that this emergency requires immediate intervention to protect the nation's children.

"We must act swiftly. Immunization is a fundamental right for every child, and it is our collective duty to ensure they are protected," remarked Piprim in a press release received on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

In response to the surge, IDAI has recommended six strategic steps focused on three primary areas. The first priority is a catch-up immunization program for children aged nine months to 15 years who have not yet been vaccinated.

The second focus involves enhancing surveillance to monitor the spread of Measles and Rubella (MR) cases more effectively. This is crucial because the 2024 coverage for the second vaccine dose reached only 82.3%, falling well below the 95% target required for herd immunity.

Finally, the organization aims to bolster laboratory capacity to support ongoing surveillance efforts. Strengthening these diagnostic capabilities is essential for ensuring accurate clinical diagnoses and managing the public health response.

Chairperson of the IDAI Immunization Task Force, Hartono Gunardi, explained that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted routine immunization services. This disruption has created "pockets of vulnerability" in various regions as many children missed their scheduled shots.

He also addressed public concerns regarding vaccine safety, asserting that such claims lack scientific merit.

"The MR vaccine used in Indonesia has undergone rigorous evaluation and has been authorized by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM)," clarified Hartono.

He urged parents to consult trusted healthcare professionals rather than falling for misinformation.

"There is no reason to delay. Measles can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death," he warned, calling for a unified movement between parents, health workers, and the government. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)