Dompu Launches Measles Immunization for 25,705 Children

Dompu, Indonesia – A swift response to a measles outbreak is underway in Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, with the launch of an Outbreak Response Immunization (ORI) campaign targeting 25,705 children aged 9 months to 59 months. The initiative, spearheaded by Dompu Regent Bambang Firdaus, aims to rapidly increase immunization coverage and curb the spread of the highly contagious viral infection.

Responding to a Rise in Cases

The ORI campaign is a direct response to a significant increase in measles cases within the region. As of today, March 11, 2026, a total of 226 cases have been reported, including 10 cases originating from neighboring Bima Regency and receiving treatment at Dompu’s RSUD hospital. Within Dompu Regency itself, 216 cases have been confirmed. The distribution of cases varies across districts: Dompu (96), Woja (66), Hu’u (10), Kempo (7), Kilo (10), Manggelewa (18), Pajo (8), and Pekat (1).

Measles, while preventable through vaccination, remains a significant public health concern globally. The virus is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of achieving and maintaining high immunization coverage to eliminate measles.

Mobilizing Resources and Expertise

The launch event, held at the Dompu District Office, brought together key stakeholders including regional officials, hospital directors, health center leaders, and representatives from the Dompu Regency Health Office. Regent Bambang Firdaus stressed the importance of fully serving all eligible children within the target age group, emphasizing that immunization is crucial for ensuring healthy growth and development, and for building a future generation capable of contributing to the region’s progress. He linked the initiative to President Prabowo Subianto’s vision of a “golden generation” by 2045.

Currently, 400 vials (4,000 doses) of the measles vaccine are available, with an additional 10,000 doses en route from the Indonesian Ministry of Health. The Health Office reports that a total of 25,705 doses are needed to reach the target population. Efforts are likewise underway to ensure the availability of Vitamin A supplements alongside the measles vaccine, as Vitamin A deficiency can increase the severity of measles infection.

A Multi-Pronged Approach to Outbreak Control

The ORI campaign is just one component of a broader strategy to address the measles outbreak. The Dompu Regency Health Office has been actively engaged in several key activities, including:

• Active Surveillance: Proactive identification of suspected measles cases through community outreach and health facility monitoring.
• Epidemiological Investigation: Detailed investigation of each case to identify potential sources of infection and transmission patterns.
• Laboratory Confirmation: Collection of blood samples from suspected cases for laboratory testing at a health laboratory in Surabaya to confirm diagnosis.
• Epidemiological Studies: Collaborative studies with the Provincial Health Office and the WHO to understand the outbreak dynamics and inform control measures.
• Rapid Surveys: Quick assessments conducted in communities across seven villages in three districts to gather data on immunization coverage and identify gaps.
• Microplanning: Detailed planning at the level of each of the 10 public health centers (Puskesmas) to ensure efficient vaccine delivery and outreach.
• Isolation Capacity: Preparation of isolation rooms at healthcare facilities to provide appropriate care for confirmed measles patients.

A circular letter (Surat Edaran Bupati No 800/598/dikes/III/2026) has also been issued by the Regent to raise awareness about the increasing number of measles cases in Dompu Regency in 2026.

Understanding the Importance of Immunization

Measles is caused by a virus that spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash that spreads over the body. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides comprehensive information on measles symptoms, transmission, and prevention.

The measles vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease. Two doses of the vaccine are recommended for optimal protection. Immunization not only protects the individual but also contributes to “herd immunity,” where a high percentage of the population is immune, making it difficult for the virus to spread. The ORI campaign aims to achieve 95% immunization coverage to establish this crucial level of herd immunity.

What Comes Next: Sustained Vigilance and Monitoring

The success of the ORI campaign will be closely monitored through ongoing surveillance and data analysis. The Dompu Regency Health Office will continue to track new cases, assess immunization coverage rates, and evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. Further epidemiological investigations will be conducted as needed to identify and address any remaining gaps in control efforts. The Ministry of Health will continue to provide technical support and vaccine supplies to ensure the sustainability of the immunization program. Continued community engagement and education will be vital to maintaining high immunization rates and preventing future outbreaks.