Global Measles Surge Linked To Falling Vaccination Rates
Measles cases have surged worldwide in 2024 and early 2025. The Global Virus Network (GVN), a coalition of virologists from over 40 countries, has brought into light this alarming trend. The rise is mainly due to declining vaccination coverage. The United States recorded its highest number of measles cases in 30 years. Similar outbreaks are seen across Africa, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Weak health systems and interrupted vaccination drives worsen the situation.
Measles Resurgence and Its Causes
Measles is highly contagious. The virus spreads rapidly among unvaccinated populations. In the US, vaccination rates dropped below the 95% needed for herd immunity. Nonmedical exemptions rose to 3.3% during the 2023-2024 school year. This decline enabled outbreaks in states like Texas, New Mexico, and California. Globally, war, displacement, and poor health infrastructure contributed to the surge.
Impact of the Outbreaks
The US reported about 1,300 confirmed cases in 2024 alone. Texas experienced its largest outbreak since the 1990s. Two children died in Gaines County due to measles complications. Worldwide, over 10.3 million cases were reported in 2023, a thirty-fold increase from the previous year. Africa accounted for nearly half of major outbreaks. Europe saw cases in 41 of its 53 countries. The Americas faced an eleven-fold increase in early 2025, often linked to international travel.
Health Risks and Complications
Measles can lead to severe health issues. One to three deaths occur per 1,000 infected children if unvaccinated. Complications include pneumonia, severe diarrhoea, encephalitis, and deafness. Some children develop subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a fatal neurological disease appearing years later. These risks emphasise the need for vaccination.
Public Health Challenges and Responses
Every outbreak signals a failure in public health and trust. The GVN urges immediate vaccination with the MMR vaccine for children and adults. Public awareness and strong surveillance systems are essential. Focus must be on underserved and rural areas where vaccine access and hesitancy are high. The resurgence threatens global efforts in pandemic preparedness and viral disease control.
Global Travel and Disease Spread
Post-pandemic travel has increased the risk of spreading measles internationally. Local outbreaks can quickly become global threats. Experts warn that neglecting vaccination weakens defences against all vaccine-preventable diseases. Continued vigilance and immunisation are critical to protect communities worldwide.
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