The World Health Organization (WHO), with support from the Government of Japan, has launched a new initiative aimed at closing immunization gaps and addressing measles-rubella (MR) outbreaks in Indonesia. The programme, titled “No Child Left Behind: Ending deadly measles-rubella outbreaks and closing immunization gaps in Indonesia,” focuses on strengthening routine vaccination systems and improving disease surveillance in high-risk regions.
Indonesia is currently facing a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases, with particularly low immunization coverage in provinces such as North Sumatra and Papua. In 2024, MR dose 1 coverage in Papua was reported at just 46.2 percent. During the same period, tens of thousands of children in high-risk regions missed essential vaccinations, leaving large populations vulnerable to outbreaks.
By early 2026, more than 2,131 laboratory-confirmed measles cases had already been recorded, with 25 provinces and 252 districts classified as high risk. Health authorities have identified significant gaps in immunization coverage as a key driver of repeated outbreaks, particularly in remote and underserved communities.
The one-year initiative will focus on improving vaccine delivery, strengthening outbreak response systems and building local capacity in priority regions including North Sumatra and Papua. It will also enhance coordination between health services, education authorities, religious institutions and civil society organizations to improve public awareness and vaccine uptake.
WHO representatives emphasized that the programme comes at a critical time as Indonesia continues to experience rising measles cases. Support from Japan is intended to reinforce national immunization systems and improve protection for children in remote areas.
Officials from the Government of Japan highlighted that strengthening access to life-saving vaccines is essential for public health security and preventing the cross-border spread of infectious diseases. The initiative is part of broader efforts to support Indonesia’s progress toward universal health coverage and more resilient health systems.
WHO and Japan have a long-standing partnership in Indonesia, and this latest collaboration reinforces their shared commitment to reducing preventable childhood diseases and strengthening long-term public health capacity across the country.
