Overview
- In 2024, about 11 million people contracted measles worldwide, with outbreaks reported in 59 countries, according to the WHO.
- Canada documented roughly 5,000 cases and lost its measles‑free status, while the United States recorded about 1,700 cases and three deaths.
- WHO officials warn that online falsehoods are fueling vaccine hesitancy and that shrinking funds for immunization campaigns are undermining coverage.
- Despite long-term gains—measles deaths fell to 95,000 in 2024 from 780,000 in 2000—experts say decades of progress are at risk and 96 countries still count the disease as eliminated.
- Germany’s surveillance shows volatility, with 79 cases in 2023, 645 in 2024 and 224 through late November 2025, and health authorities stress timely completion of the second vaccine dose.