Suspected Cases Increase, Here are 7 Things Not to Do when Sick with Measles

YOGYAKARTA - The measles case in central Indonesia is in the spotlight. The Indonesian Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) reported an increase in suspected measles cases to 8,224 cases since the beginning of the year until February 23, 2026.

In addition, during this period, 21 extraordinary cases (KLB) of suspected measles have also been reported in 17 districts or cities in 11 provinces, with the five provinces with the most measles KLB being West Sumatra, South Sumatra, DI Yogyakarta, West Java, and Central Java.

To note, measles is a disease caused by viral infection from the paramoxyvirus family.

Measles most often occurs in children with symptoms such as a skin rash all over the body, high fever, dry cough, runny nose, red eyes and weakness.

Measles is a very contagious disease. Therefore, it is important to know what not to do when you have measles so that you can prevent the spread of the virus to others. Summarized from various sources, see the complete information below.

Things Not to Do When You Have Measles Leave the House and Interact with Many People

One of the main taboos for children who experience measles is to leave the house. The measles virus is very contagious, so children who suffer from measles should stay at home until their condition improves.

Measles transmission can even occur about a day before symptoms appear and lasts up to about four days after the first rash is seen. Therefore, sick children should not go to school and avoid contact with others, especially those who have not received the measles vaccine.

In addition, children are also advised to be in a room that is not too bright because people with measles often experience sensitivity to light that can make the eyes feel uncomfortable.

Snoring or Coughing Irresponsibly

Measles can spread through the splash of fluid from the nose and mouth when the sufferer sneezes or coughs. The virus that comes out with the droplet can even survive in the air for up to two hours.

Therefore, children need to be taught to cover their noses and mouths when sneezing or coughing. The recommended way is to cover it with your elbow so that the virus does not spread into the air and infect others.

Ignoring the Habit of Washing Hands

Keeping hands clean is an important step to prevent the spread of measles virus. Children who are sick should wash their hands often, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching objects around them.

Wash your hands with running water and soap for at least 20 seconds so that germs and viruses can be removed as much as possible.

Using Personal Items Together

One of the taboos when you have measles is to use personal items alternately with others. The virus can stick to various objects and potentially transmit the disease.

Some items that should not be used together include plates, spoons, glasses, drinking bottles, towels, and toothbrushes. Avoiding the habit of sharing items can help reduce the risk of virus transmission.

Less Fluid Intake

Children who are sick with measles are at risk of dehydration if they do not get enough fluid intake. This condition can make the body more limp and slow down the healing process.

Make sure your child drinks enough water. Parents can also give fruit juice or milk to ensure that the body's fluid needs are met.

Consuming caffeinated beverages

Although children are advised to drink a lot, it is best to avoid drinks containing caffeine such as coffee or tea. In addition, carbonated drinks or drinks with high sugar levels are also not recommended.

The drink can worsen the body's condition and potentially increase the risk of complications in measles sufferers.

Eating oily or fried foods

Fried food is delicious, but it is not good for measles sufferers. Oily foods or processed foods can trigger digestive disorders and worsen the body's condition.

Instead, give healthier nutritious foods such as vegetables, fruits, soups, or foods that are easy to digest so that your child's body recovers faster.

This is information about what not to do when you have measles. Get updates on other featured news by visiting the VOI.id page.

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