Many people still think of measles as a mild skin disease that only causes a red and itchy rash. In fact, measles is a highly contagious paramyxovirus virus infection and has the potential to cause serious complications, especially in children. Although the Measles–Rubella (MR) immunization program has expanded in Indonesia, cases still appear every year. This confirms that measles remains a public health threat that we need to be aware of together.
What is measles?
Measles is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory tract and spreads quickly through the air, such as when people cough, sneeze, or talk. Transmission often increases in dense environments such as schools, places of worship, or slums.
The most vulnerable group is children aged 6 months to 5 years who have not been fully immunized. The Indonesian Ministry of Health records thousands of cases every year, with some ending in fatalities due to complications.
Symptoms to Watch Out for
Symptoms appear 7–10 days after exposure. Early stages similar to the common cold:
- High fever (can reach 40 °C),
- Dry cough and cold.
- Red eyes (conjunctivitis),
- Coptic spots: Small white spots with a reddish base inside the mouth (appear 2–3 days after the initial symptoms).
After the initial phase, a characteristic red rash appears:
- Starting from the face and neck.
- Spreads to the body, hands, and feet.
- It lasts for 3–5 days, during which the body temperature usually spikes again.
Impact If Not Addressed
Measles is not a disease that always heals on its own. Without proper treatment, measles can trigger life-threatening complications, such as:
- Pneumonia (lung infection), especially in toddlers
- Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), which can cause seizures, permanent nerve damage, and coma;
- Otitis Media (ear infection) and severe diarrhea, which can worsen a child's condition, especially when accompanied by malnutrition.
The WHO states that 1 in 1,000 cases is at risk of acute encephalitis, with the potential for death or permanent brain damage. In Indonesia, measles still contributes to child mortality in areas with low immunization coverage.
The Importance of Measles Immunization and Vaccination
The MR vaccine is the most effective way to break transmission, with 93–97% effectiveness at full doses. Regular schedule in Indonesia:
- The first dose is at the age of 9 months.
- The second dose is at 18 months of age.
- High immunization also creates herd immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. The government continues to supply MR vaccines and accelerate campaigns in areas prone to Extraordinary Events (KLB).
- The red rash is just the "tip of the iceberg" of measles. Complete MR immunization protects your children and future generations of Indonesia so that they grow up healthy. Immediately go to the Health Center if your child has a high fever accompanied by a rash!
References:
1. Muhawarman, Aji. Ministry of Health Beware of National and Global Measles Dynamics. February 26, 2026. Ministry of Health. Available in: https://kemkes.go.id/id/kemenkes-waspadai-dinamika-campak-nasional-dan-global
2. Rizal, dr. Fadhli. Beware, This is a Complication Caused by Measles. December 25, 2020. halodoc. Available on: https://www.halodoc.com/artikel/waspada-ini-komplikasi-yang-disebabkan-oleh-campak
3. Murzen, dr. Robby Firmansyah. Measles Rash, Know the Characteristics and Tips to Overcome It. April 24, 2024. A doctor. Available on: https://www.alodokter.com/ruam-campak-kenali-ciri-ciri-dan-tips-untuk-mengatasinya
4. Staff, RSPP Admin. The Importance of Understanding the Phases of Measles: From Initial Symptoms to Recovery. August 28, 2025. RSPP. Available on: https://rspp.co.id/artikel-detail-895-Pentingnya-Memahami-Fase-Campak-Dari-Gejala-Awal-hingga-Pemulihan.html
5. Erlin SpA. Measles/Rubella/Mumps Vaccine. 08 September 2025. halodoc. Available in: https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/vaksin-campak-rubella-gondongan