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View all search resultsRising anti-vax sentiment undermines child immunization efforts
A renewed measles vaccination drive following a recent outbreak in several regions has fueled public debate over vaccine necessity and effectiveness, exposing resistance among some parents who refuse immunization for their children.
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A child looks as a medical worker prepares a dose of measles vaccine in Makassar, South Sulawesi on April 14, 2026. The South Sulawesi Health Agency launches a measles immunization drive following 169 cases of diseases found across the province. (Antara/Arnas Padda)
T
he Health Ministry has been grappling with rising anti-vaccine narratives and misinformation surrounding vaccination, which have hindered efforts to boost uptake as childhood immunization coverage remains below national targets.
A renewed measles vaccination drive following a recent outbreak in several regions has fueled public debate over vaccine necessity and effectiveness, exposing resistance among some parents who refuse immunization for their children.
One of them is Fatimah Al Wardah, a mother of three from Bekasi, West Java, who has grown skeptical of vaccines after hearing reports linking them to illness and even death.
“I chose to be anti-vaccine not merely out of FOMO [fear of missing out], but because it has become a principle I hold,” she told The Jakarta Post on Friday. She believes that immunization is a matter of personal rights, with individuals free to accept or refuse it.
The 33-year-old massage therapist also questioned the halal status and effectiveness of vaccines. “If it’s only about preventing viruses, there are plenty of healthy foods that are enough to strengthen the immune system.”
When her nine-month-old firstborn was diagnosed with measles, Fatimah refused prescribed medication and instead relied on herbal remedies such as coconut water, dates and sea cucumber jelly. Her child later recovered, has never been vaccinated and is now 11 years old and healthy, she said.
Read also: Health experts urge maternal vaccination to protect pregnant women, babies
