
Measles has once again drawn public attention after several children in Sumenep, Madura, reportedly died from the disease. The incident has sparked public concern and widespread discussion on social media. As of August 2025, Indonesia recorded 3,444 confirmed measles cases, with 46 outbreaks across 14 provinces.
Lecturer at the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FK-KMK UGM), and consultant for infectious and tropical diseases at Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Ratni Indrawanti, explained that measles can affect people of all ages, although symptoms are generally more apparent in children.
“Measles can infect anyone, but its symptoms tend to appear more severely in children,” said the pediatrician on Friday (Oct. 10) at UGM.
According to Indrawanti, the main symptoms of measles include high fever accompanied by cough and runny nose. On the third or fourth day, a red rash typically appears, starting from the face and spreading across the body.
One of the most distinguishing signs of measles is the presence of small white spots inside the mouth, known as Koplik spots.
“Not every fever with a rash is measles. Diagnosis must be confirmed through proper medical examination,” Indrawanti emphasized.
The dangers of measles extend beyond its initial symptoms. The infection can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to other diseases and serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis (brain inflammation).
“These complications are often what lead to fatal outcomes,” she noted.
Preventive measures against measles primarily involve measles or MR (Measles–Rubella) immunization. Although vaccines do not guarantee complete prevention, immunization has been proven effective in protecting individuals from severe symptoms and contributing to herd immunity.
“Diseases that have vaccines are usually dangerous ones. If someone is not vaccinated, they can transmit the infection to others,” the physician added.
Measles also poses significant risks for pregnant women and their unborn babies, especially if infection occurs during the first trimester. Such cases may lead to miscarriage, premature birth, or newborns developing measles symptoms within the first ten days of life.
Therefore, women are strongly advised to receive the MMR vaccine at least one month before planning a pregnancy.
In addition to immunization, Indrawanti emphasized other preventive measures such as wearing masks when sick, proper handwashing, and maintaining good nutrition to strengthen the immune system.
“Measles spreads through the air, similar to COVID-19. Therefore, the prevention methods are also similar: immunization, wearing masks, and handwashing,” she explained.
When measles cases occur in schools, immediate measures should be taken, including contact tracing, symptom checks, and ensuring all children are immunized.
Infected students should remain at home until full recovery, while schools are encouraged to maintain cleanliness and provide education for students and parents on recognizing and preventing measles.
Author: Ika Agustine
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographs: PKT UGM and Freepik