In 2023, global measles cases reached an estimated 10.3 million, marking a 20% increase compared to the previous year. This alarming rise in infections is driven by inadequate vaccination coverage, with millions of children missing out on life-saving doses. As measles continues to threaten public health, experts urge governments and organizations to prioritize immunization efforts to prevent further outbreaks and save lives.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported this significant increase in measles cases worldwide. In 2023, 57 countries experienced large or disruptive outbreaks. This surge, which affected nearly every region except the Americas, underscores the growing challenge in controlling this highly contagious disease. The situation is most concerning in the African, Eastern Mediterranean, European, South-East Asia, and Western Pacific regions. In these areas, cases have surged dramatically.
THE ROLE OF VACCINATION IN PREVENTING MEASLES
Measles is preventable through two doses of the measles vaccine, yet millions of children missed their first dose in 2023. More than 22 million children were left unvaccinated, contributing to the increase in measles cases. WHO estimates that 83% of children received their first dose last year. However, only 74% received the second. This falls short of the 95% coverage needed to prevent outbreaks and protect populations.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated; “Measles vaccine has saved more lives than any other vaccine in the past 50 years.” He emphasized that the world must invest in immunization. This is crucial to protect vulnerable populations. It is also essential to curb the spread of this deadly virus.
IMPACT ON CHILDREN AND GLOBAL HEALTH
The consequences of missed vaccinations are dire. In 2023, an estimated 107,500 people, primarily children under five, died from measles. Although this shows an 8% decrease from the prior year, the number of preventable deaths remains unacceptably high. The surge in measles cases has primarily affected countries with better health services. This has helped reduce fatalities. Yet, the risk of severe complications like blindness, pneumonia, and encephalitis (brain swelling) remains a significant concern.
Even when children survive the infection, the long-term health consequences can be devastating. Measles remains a major cause of child mortality. This is particularly true in regions with limited access to healthcare.
DISRUPTIONS TO MEASLES ELIMINATION GOALS
The rise in measles cases threatens global elimination goals outlined in the Immunization Agenda 2030. By the end of 2023, 82 countries had successfully eliminated measles. Urgent action is needed in regions like Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean. This action will guarantee that immunization efforts are restored and strengthened. The African region, in particular, saw nearly half of all large or disruptive outbreaks in 2023, highlighting the ongoing challenge.
On a positive note, Brazil was recently reverified as having eliminated measles. This makes the WHO Americas Region free from endemic measles once again. Nonetheless, the progress in other regions remains fragile, and without comprehensive vaccination campaigns, these achievements may be reversed.
THE PATH FORWARD: STRENGTHENING IMMUNIZATION EFFORTS
To address this crisis, WHO and its partners urge for targeted actions. Swift efforts are needed, especially in vulnerable and conflict-affected areas. Countries must strengthen routine immunization programs. They need to increase vaccination coverage. It is important to deliver high-quality campaigns to reach all children with both doses of the measles vaccine. In regions where routine immunization coverage is insufficient, intensive vaccination campaigns are crucial to mitigate the spread of the virus.
Additionally, improving disease surveillance through the Global Measles Rubella Laboratory Network (GMRLN) is crucial. It ensures the rapid detection and response to outbreaks. Early detection and a swift response can reduce the scale and impact of outbreaks, preventing further loss of life.
