A record-high 127,350 measles cases were reported in the European Region for 2024, according to a joint analysis by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF. This represents double the number of cases reported for 2023 and is the highest since 1997.
Children under five accounted for more than 40% of reported cases, with over half requiring hospitalization. The Region saw 38 deaths attributed to measles, based on preliminary data received as of March 6, 2025.
Measles cases in Europe have been declining since 1997 but rose again in recent years due to a decline in immunization coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccination rates in many countries remain below pre-pandemic levels, increasing the risk of outbreaks.
WHO Regional Director Dr Hans P Kluge warned that without high vaccination rates, “there is no health security.” UNICEF Regional Director Regina De Dominicis emphasized the need for urgent government action to address gaps in immunization coverage and protect children from measles.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause serious complications, including blindness, and damage the immune system. Vaccination remains the best defense against the virus. Countries with low vaccination rates are at risk of outbreaks, highlighting the need for sustained investment in healthcare workers and strengthening immunization programs.
In 2024, Romania reported the highest number of measles cases in the Region, followed by Kazakhstan. The European Region accounted for one-third of all global measles cases, with over 359,000 cases reported worldwide.
Source: https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/european-region-reports-highest-number-measles-cases-more-25-years-unicef-whoeurope