Easily Transmissible, Here are the Important Steps to Prevent Measles from Early

JAKARTA - Prevention of measles needs to be a serious concern, especially because this disease is very contagious and is still widely found in the community.

One of the most effective steps to protect yourself and those around you is through immunization, accompanied by clean living habits and early detection when symptoms appear.

Doctor of the University of Indonesia Hospital (RSUI), dr. Shofa Nisrina Luthfiyani, emphasized that immunization is the main way to prevent measles. "MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) immunization can prevent measles, this disease is generally preceded by symptoms such as high fever, cough, cold, and red eyes," he said in Depok.

He explained, a few days after the initial symptoms, usually a red rash appears which starts from the face and ear area, then spreads to the whole body. Another typical sign is a white spot in the mouth known as Koplik's spots.

Measles spreads through the splash of respiratory fluid (droplet) when the sufferer coughs or sneezes. "Measles transmission occurs through the splash of the respiratory tract (droplet) when the sufferer coughs or sneezes," explained Dr. Shofa. This virus can even survive in the air or stick to the surface of objects for a certain period of time, so the risk of transmission is higher.

The most vulnerable groups exposed to measles include children who have not received immunizations, adults who have never been vaccinated, and individuals with weak immune systems.

If not handled properly, measles can trigger serious complications, such as pneumonia, diarrhea, ear infections, and brain inflammation (encephalitis).

To reduce the risk of transmission, the public is encouraged to maintain hand hygiene, wear masks when sick, avoid contact with sufferers, and keep the body in good condition.

In addition, it is important to immediately consult a health facility if you experience symptoms such as high fever for more than three days, widespread rashes, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness. Early treatment can help prevent more severe complications.

RSUI itself provides services for the examination and treatment of infectious diseases, including measles, with the support of professional medical personnel. Measles or measles is still a disease that needs to be watched out for, given that data from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia shows that tens of thousands of suspected measles cases occurred throughout 2025 to early 2026.

By increasing awareness, ensuring complete immunization, and conducting early detection, the spread of measles is expected to be controlled and the risk of complications can be minimized.