BLITAR – The measles vaccination drive in Blitar has begun, targeting up to 600 toddlers as health authorities move quickly to prevent a potential outbreak despite zero reported cases in the city.

The Blitar City Health Office launched the campaign on April 23 and will continue it until May 2. Officials focus on children aged 9 to 59 months who missed routine immunizations or never received the measles vaccine.

Head of Disease Prevention and Control at the Blitar Health Office, Silvia Dewi Kusumawati, said the program prioritizes children enrolled in local early education centers. Authorities will vaccinate all eligible children studying in the city, regardless of their place of residence.

“Our main focus is children attending schools in the city. Even if they come from outside Blitar, we will still provide vaccination,” she said.

Health workers are not limiting the rollout to clinics. Instead, they are visiting playgroups and early childhood education centers to ensure wider coverage. The team coordinates closely with the local education office to reach as many children as possible.

Officials have urged parents to make sure their children attend school during the scheduled visits. This step is crucial to help the city reach its vaccination targets.

At the same time, health authorities acknowledge challenges on the ground. Some parents still underestimate measles, as early symptoms often appear mild. However, the disease can cause serious complications in young children if left untreated.

“We expect parents to cooperate. If some refuse, we will monitor and approach them persuasively so they understand the importance of this vaccination,” Silvia added.

The Health Office has also requested vaccine supplies from the East Java provincial government. Officials aim to ensure sufficient doses to meet the targeted coverage and build herd immunity.

Although Blitar has not recorded any measles cases, authorities remain cautious. A confirmed case recently emerged in Tulungagung, while suspected cases have appeared in several regions, including Gresik, Madiun, and Malang Regency.

Officials believe early intervention through vaccination will help prevent transmission and protect vulnerable children across the city.