Indonesia public health and immunization initiatives

Indonesia is implementing various public health initiatives focused on disease prevention and early detection.

In early September 2026, health authorities intensified screening efforts. In Sinjai Regency, local government launched an integrated movement to accelerate tuberculosis control through active tracing and screening of suspected individuals. Concurrently, Tigaraksa Regional General Hospital conducted comprehensive health checks for its staff, including blood sugar testing, electrocardiograms, and vaccinations.

Following these screening efforts, reports emerged regarding the Bulan Imunisasi Anak Sekolah (BIAS) program, which targets elementary school students. In Bone, immunization sessions were conducted for multiple grade levels. In Gunungkidul, the program reported high coverage rates, with vaccination rates for various grades exceeding 95%. Local health offices continue sweep operations to reach any remaining unvaccinated students.

On September 12, 2026, the Indonesian Ministry of Health confirmed that the 2026 BIAS program would proceed as scheduled following a safety review. The decision followed a causality study regarding a serious adverse event involving a student in Karo Regency, North Sumatra, who developed meningoencephalitis after receiving the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Investigations by the National Commission for KIPI and local authorities classified the incident as “inconsistent (coincident),” concluding there was insufficient evidence to link the vaccine to the condition.

In Binjai, officials are actively promoting the BIAS program to combat misinformation and encourage parental support, emphasizing that immunization remains a critical tool against diseases such as polio, diphtheria, pertussis, and tuberculosis.