Jakarta, Aug. 27 -- A measles outbreak in Sumenep, East Java, has killed 17 children and is suspected to have infected nearly 2,000 others over the past eight months.

Due to this surge in cases, local health authorities have declared an "extraordinary event."

As of August 24, 2025, the Health Ministry recorded 46 measles outbreaks in 42 districts/cities across 14 provinces, including Sumenep District.

Measles is a contagious respiratory infection characterized by a skin rash all over the body and flu-like symptoms caused by the rubella virus. The disease can be prevented through immunization.

However, low immunization coverage and parental vaccine hesitancy have been said to be the causes of the surge in measles cases in Indonesia.

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