Measles Outbreaks Surge Globally as Vaccination Rates Decline

Cases in North America and Europe reach alarming levels, with public health officials urging increased vaccination efforts to curb preventable deaths and complications.

Ontario, Canada, has reported nearly 200 measles cases in two weeks, exceeding the total number of cases from 2013 to 2023 combined.
In the U.S., outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico have caused the first measles deaths in a decade, with 256 total cases reported this year.
The World Health Organization and UNICEF warn that measles cases in Europe and Central Asia doubled in 2024, reaching the highest levels since 1997.
Low vaccination rates, exacerbated by misinformation and pandemic-related disruptions, are fueling outbreaks, with some regions falling well below the 95% coverage needed for herd immunity.
Experts emphasize the importance of timely vaccination, including early doses for infants in outbreak areas, while addressing vaccine hesitancy and misinformation.

The Philadelphia Inquirer