BALIKPAPAN, Indonesia – Health officials in Balikpapan, Indonesia, are urging residents to be vigilant against measles as the country experiences a rise in cases nationwide. While overall health conditions remain stable during the month of Ramadan, the potential for increased measles transmission is a key concern for public health authorities.
According to Alwiati, head of the Balikpapan City Health Office (DKK), there hasn’t been a significant increase in illnesses within the city during Ramadan. Although, the DKK has received a warning from the Indonesian Ministry of Health regarding the growing measles outbreak in several regions of the country.
“Generally, illness rates in Balikpapan during Ramadan haven’t shown a significant increase,” Alwiati said on Saturday, March 7, 2026. “However, we’ve received a warning from the Ministry of Health regarding measles, which is currently an outbreak in several areas. This is something we all require to be aware of.”
Balikpapan’s status as a city with high population mobility increases the risk of importing infectious diseases from other areas. Frequent travel for work, education, and economic activity can contribute to the spread of illness.
The DKK is advising residents to prioritize their health, particularly for children, who are most vulnerable to measles. Parents are encouraged to ensure their children have received all recommended vaccinations according to the government’s immunization schedule. This is a critical step in preventing the spread of the disease and protecting the community.
Measles cases have been identified in Balikpapan, but the number remains limited and hasn’t reached alarming levels. As of now, the reported cases are in the dozens, not hundreds.
“We have seen cases in Balikpapan, but the number is still in the dozens. It hasn’t reached hundreds, but it still needs our attention to prevent further spread,” Alwiati explained.
To proactively address the situation, the DKK is implementing catch-up immunization programs for children who haven’t completed their vaccination series. These efforts aim to increase immunity levels and reduce the risk of outbreaks.
Health workers are also providing mass treatment to individuals suspected of being infected and conducting contact tracing to identify and contain potential transmission chains. If cases are detected in specific areas, health teams will immediately deploy to provide treatment and control the spread of the disease.
“We are conducting catch-up immunizations and providing mass treatment to those suspected of being infected. If cases are found in a particular area, we immediately go in to provide treatment and control transmission,” she added.
Alwiati emphasized that children who have been fully vaccinated are generally better protected against measles. Even if they do contract the illness, the symptoms are typically less severe.
Residents are urged not to underestimate the importance of vaccination. Parents should promptly seek medical attention for their children if they develop symptoms such as high fever accompanied by a red rash.
“Immunization is very important. Children who have been vaccinated are usually better protected. Even if infected, the symptoms are not severe,” Alwiati concluded. (rep/adv diskominfo Balikpapan)
