Measles Cases Surge in Europe
Measles cases in Europe and Central Asia surged to 127,350 in 2024, marking the highest number of cases since 1997 and doubling the total number of cases from 2023. Children under five accounted for over 40% of these cases, with many requiring hospitalization due to complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. The increase follows a decline in vaccination coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left many communities vulnerable to outbreaks. WHO and UNICEF have called for urgent action to close gaps in immunization, especially in countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Romania, where vaccination rates remain dangerously low.
Romania has seen the highest number of cases, with over 30,000 reported in 2024, followed by Kazakhstan. While the disease’s resurgence is concerning, health experts warn that measles outbreaks are a global threat. Measles is one of the most contagious viruses, spreading rapidly in areas with low vaccination rates. The WHO emphasized the importance of vaccinating at least 95% of the population to prevent further spread, as recent data shows that unvaccinated individuals—especially young children—are the most affected.
In the EU/EEA, 86% of measles cases in 2024 were among unvaccinated individuals, highlighting the critical need for increased immunization efforts. Public health officials are particularly concerned about the vulnerable groups that rely on herd immunity, such as infants and those unable to be vaccinated for medical reasons. With the upcoming spring, more cases are expected, and experts urge governments to strengthen their vaccination programs to avoid further outbreaks.
