Measles Cases in Europe Reach 25-Year High: WHO Urges Vaccination

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports a significant surge in measles cases in Europe, with over 127,350 cases in 2024, the highest since 1997. This increase, detailed in a WHO/UNICEF analysis, is double the number reported in 2023. Children under five account for over 40% of cases. The WHO attributes this rise to declining immunization coverage, which has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels. Romania recorded the most cases, followed by Kazakhstan. The WHO emphasizes that maintaining high vaccination rates, with two doses of the MMR vaccine being 97% effective, is crucial to prevent further outbreaks. Across the EU/EEA, measles vaccination levels remain below the target of 95% coverage required for population immunity. The increase in measles cases highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vaccination rates, with millions of children missing their routine vaccinations. The WHO urges countries to step up efforts to reach under-vaccinated communities to protect children from this preventable disease.