Pekanbaru health officials accelerate immunization for 3,425 children

The Pekanbaru Health Office is accelerating immunization efforts for infants and children under two years old after identifying 3,425 children in the city who have received no vaccinations. These children are classified as ‘zero dose’ and face increased risks of contracting preventable diseases such as diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, measles, and rubella.

Pekanbaru currently ranks 11th out of 12 regencies and cities in Riau Province regarding immunization coverage. In response, Mayor Agung Nugroho has instructed health officials to take rapid action. This initiative aligns with the Indonesian Ministry of Health’s National Catch-up Immunization Month, scheduled to run from October 1 to October 31, 2026.

To improve coverage, the Health Office will collaborate with the Education Office, Social Services, and the PKK Empowerment Team. The strategy focuses on both increasing vaccination rates and educating parents on the critical importance of immunization to prevent future outbreaks.