Measles Cases Surge Globally as Vaccination Rates Decline

Europe reports its highest measles cases in 25 years, while outbreaks spread across the U.S., underscoring the need for improved vaccination efforts.

The WHO and UNICEF report 127,350 measles cases in Europe and Central Asia in 2024, the highest since 1997, with children under five comprising 40% of cases.
Global measles vaccination rates have dropped, with only 83% of children receiving their first dose in 2023, far below the 95% needed to prevent outbreaks.
The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles outbreak since 2019, with over 250 cases reported across multiple states, including two deaths, primarily among unvaccinated individuals.
Texas accounts for the majority of U.S. cases, with 223 reported since January, while new cases have emerged in California, New Mexico, and other states.
Health officials emphasize the importance of the MMR vaccine, which is 97% effective with two doses, as misinformation about vaccine safety continues to spread.