Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), is rolling out a large-scale measles immunization campaign targeting 25,705 children under five years classic, as cases of the highly contagious disease continue to rise across the region. The initiative comes as health officials report a significant increase in suspected measles cases in 2026, prompting a proactive response to prevent further spread and protect vulnerable populations.
According to data from the Dompu Health Office, there are currently 216 suspected cases of measles spread across eight sub-districts. While the local government has not declared an extraordinary event (KLB) status, officials are taking swift action to contain the outbreak through widespread immunization efforts. The most affected sub-district is Dompu, with 96 suspected cases, followed by Woja with 66, Manggelewa with 18, Hu’u with 10, Kilo with 10, Pajo with 8, Kempo with 7, and Pekat with 1 case.
Outbreak Response Immunization Underway
The immunization campaign, known as Outbreak Response Immunization (ORI), focuses on areas and populations considered most at risk. Authorities aim to achieve 95% immunization coverage for children aged 9-59 months, a level considered crucial for establishing herd immunity. Currently, 400 vials of the measles vaccine are available, providing approximately 4,000 doses. The effort is intended to control the outbreak, reduce illness rates, and prevent deaths from this preventable disease.
The increase in cases isn’t isolated to Dompu. Across NTB province, nearly 1,000 children have been reported with suspected measles infections as of early March 2026. This includes cases in Bima Regency, Bima City, and Dompu. Health officials attribute the rise to factors including low immunization coverage and population mobility.
Factors Contributing to the Increase
Dr. Lalu Hamzi Fikri, Head of the NTB Provincial Health Office, highlighted that fluctuating immunization rates in recent years have created a vulnerable population. Many cases are occurring in children who have not received a complete course of the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine, or have not been immunized at all. “The increase in cases is influenced by several factors. Among them is the existence of groups of children who have not received a complete measles-rubella (MR) immunization,” stated Dr. Fikri. The situation is further complicated by high population mobility and delays in early detection.
Most of those affected are under the age of six, and, as of March 11, 2026, no fatalities have been reported. Patients are being treated at local health centers in each sub-district, as well as at Dompu Regional Hospital (RSUD Dompu) and Pratama Manggelewa Hospital.
Strengthened Surveillance and Response
In response to the situation, the NTB Provincial Health Office, in collaboration with local governments, is conducting active surveillance and contact tracing at the village level. This proactive approach aims to identify and isolate cases quickly, preventing further transmission. The ORI campaign is being prioritized in affected areas, focusing on infants and toddlers aged 9 to 59 months.
While the Dompu Regency government has not yet declared a KLB status, the ongoing immunization campaign and intensified surveillance efforts demonstrate a commitment to addressing the rising number of measles cases and protecting the health of its young citizens. The success of the ORI campaign will be a key indicator of whether the outbreak can be contained and further spread prevented.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about public health and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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