Measles Outbreak Escalates in Europe and UK, First Death Reported in Ireland

As measles cases surge, health officials emphasize the critical need for vaccination to prevent further spread.

An adult has died in Ireland from measles, marking the first confirmed case in the country this year and the first death in recent years.
Measles cases are surging across Europe and the UK, with a significant outbreak in the West Midlands of England, where vaccination rates have dropped.
Health officials warn of the potential for measles cases to double in England and Wales by early March, highlighting the importance of vaccination.
The World Health Organization reports a nearly 45-fold increase in measles cases in Europe last year, attributing the rise to decreased vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Public health actions are being taken in response to the outbreak, including efforts to increase MMR vaccine uptake among the population.