Measles cases in Europe have surged by 100% over the past year, with 127,350 reported in 2024, marking the highest number since 1997, according to a joint statement by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF on Thursday, MArch 13.
Dr Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, described the rise as “a wake-up call.” He highlighted the serious consequences of measles, which can lead to complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness, and long-term damage to the immune system.
The surge in cases follows a sharp decline in immunisation rates, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2023, 500,000 children in Europe missed their first dose of the measles vaccine (MCV1), contributing to the rise in outbreaks. Countries with low vaccination rates, such as Romania, which reported the highest number of cases in 2024 (30,692), are particularly at risk.
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The UN agencies warned that measles transmission could spread easily across borders, with outbreaks occurring wherever vaccination coverage is insufficient.
Children under five account for over 40% of reported cases in the region, with more than half requiring hospitalisation.
To combat the spread, UNICEF and WHO are collaborating with governments, the EU, and GAVI to strengthen vaccination campaigns, improve healthcare infrastructure, and close coverage gaps.
The agencies stressed that urgent action is needed to prevent further outbreaks, particularly in countries with low vaccination rates.
“Without high vaccination rates, there is no health security,” Kluge said, urging nations to prioritise immunisation efforts to protect vulnerable communities.
