Measles deaths plunged 88% globally since 2000, saving nearly 59 million lives through vaccination efforts. However, an estimated 95,000 people—mostly children under five—died from measles in 2024, marking one of the lowest tolls yet unacceptable given vaccine availability, says WHO.
Around 11 million infections occurred worldwide last year, up nearly 800,000 from pre-pandemic levels, with 80% of deaths in Africa and Eastern Mediterranean regions. Outbreaks accelerated as COVID-19 disruptions left millions under-immunized, threatening decades of gains.
Highly Contagious Virus Demands 95% Vaccination Coverage
Measles remains one of the most contagious respiratory viruses, with one person potentially infecting 18 others. One in five infected children requires hospitalization, underscoring its severity despite common misconceptions.
Two doses provide 95% protection, yet only 84% received the first dose and 76% the second in 2024, leaving 30 million children vulnerable—three-quarters in Africa and Eastern Mediterranean. Dr. Kate O’Brien, WHO’s Immunization Director, stressed no child needs to suffer when vaccines exist.
Outbreaks Triple Since 2021, Hitting Previously Eliminated Countries
Large or disruptive outbreaks struck 59 countries in 2024—nearly three times more than in 2021—with a quarter previously measles-free. Pandemic backsliding diverted health workers, creating zero-dose children in fragile, conflict zones. Weak routine systems and vaccine misinformation exacerbate gaps, though access—not hesitancy—poses the biggest barrier. Diana Chang-Blanc emphasized measles crosses borders, requiring every child everywhere fully immunized for protection.
Regional Disparities and Drivers Behind the Resurgence
Africa saw 40% fewer cases and 50% fewer deaths than 2019, yet bears heavy burden. Eastern Mediterranean cases rose 86%, Europe 47%, and South-East Asia 42%. Funding cuts threaten surveillance like GMRLN, widening immunity gaps.
The Immunization Agenda 2030 Mid-Term Review highlights measles as the first resurgent disease when coverage drops, endangering elimination goals—96 countries verified by late 2025, including African firsts like Cabo Verde.
Big Catch-Up Campaign Vaccinates Millions, But More Needed
Over 11 million children received vaccines through the ongoing global Big Catch-Up in 2025. WHO urges stronger surveillance, rapid response, and political commitment to hit 95% coverage targets. Leaders must combat misinformation with evidence-based messaging, building trust essential for success. Sustainable financing and partnerships accelerate recovery from COVID setbacks decisively.
WHO’s urgent warning reveals measles resurgence as a preventable tragedy amid immunity gaps. Renewed commitment to 95% vaccination, surveillance, and trust-building can secure a measles-free world, protecting vulnerable children everywhere.
Q&A: Expert Answers on Measles Resurgence Challenges
Q: Why did measles cases surge post-COVID?
A: Health worker diversions, zero-dose children in conflicts, and weak routine systems drove backsliding globally.
Q: How contagious is measles really?
A: Extremely—one infected person can spread to 18 others, hospitalizing one in five children.
Q: What vaccination levels stop outbreaks?
A: WHO requires 95% coverage with two doses for community protection and transmission halt.
Q: Is vaccine hesitancy the main issue?
A: No, access gaps in fragile areas pose bigger barriers than misinformation.
Q: How many countries eliminated measles?
A: 96 verified by late 2025, up from 81 in 2024, showing progress possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many lives saved by measles vaccine since 2000?
A: Nearly 59 million deaths prevented through global immunization efforts.
Q2: What coverage rates existed in 2024?
A: 84% first dose, 76% second dose globally, improving slightly from prior year.
Q3: Which regions saw biggest outbreak rises?
A: Eastern Mediterranean +86%, Europe +47%, South-East Asia +42% versus 2019.
Q4: When is measles most deadly?
A: Primarily children under five, with 95,000 deaths estimated in 2024.
Q5: What does IA2030 demand for elimination?
A: Strong surveillance, high-coverage campaigns, and sustained political investment.
