Dogiyai – The Central Papua Provincial Health Office has deployed an investigation team to Modio Village, Central Mapia District, Dogiyai Regency, as part of its rapid response to reports of suspected measles cases while preventing the potential occurrence of an Extraordinary Event (KLB) or outbreak.
Head of the Surveillance and Immunization Section of the Central Papua Health Office, Yohanes Kayame, stated that the team is working closely with the Dogiyai Regency Health Office and local community health center (Puskesmas) personnel to conduct a comprehensive epidemiological investigation.
According to Kayame, the initiative is part of efforts to strengthen the province’s early warning and disease surveillance system, ensuring that every report of a communicable disease is followed up through evidence-based investigations supported by accurate data to prevent further transmission.
During the investigation, the team carried out case verification and validation, traced patients’ medical histories, searched for additional suspected cases, assessed immunization status, and collected specimens in accordance with the guidelines of Indonesia’s Ministry of Health.
In addition to the investigation, health workers also conducted public education sessions to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of measles, the importance of completing routine childhood immunizations, and preventive measures to reduce the risk of transmission within families and communities.
Kayame added that the activity also serves as an opportunity to strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers at both the regency and community health center levels, enabling them to detect, respond to, and manage communicable diseases more effectively and independently in the future.
During the operation, the investigation team encountered challenges after some family members initially declined the investigation into the death of a child. However, through a persuasive approach and support from community leaders and village authorities, the investigation was ultimately carried out in accordance with established procedures.
The Central Papua Health Office has urged the public to remain calm while staying alert to the symptoms of measles. Residents experiencing fever accompanied by a reddish skin rash are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility to ensure early diagnosis and treatment.
The public is also reminded to ensure that all children receive their complete routine immunizations, as vaccination remains the most effective measure to prevent the spread of measles and protect public health.
