Measles Cases Nearly Double Worldwide, Threatening Elimination Efforts
The number of measles cases around the world has almost doubled from 2022 to 2023, posing significant challenges to achieving and maintaining elimination status in many countries. According to provisional data, there were a staggering 321,582 measles cases globally in 2023, with more than 94,000 cases reported so far in 2024.
Almost half of this year’s cases have been in the World Health Organization’s European Region, with the highest incidence reported in Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and Yemen. Meanwhile, the United States has reported 128 measles cases in 20 jurisdictions this year, marking the highest number since 2019.
Measles, a highly contagious airborne disease, was declared eliminated in the US in 2000. However, the rapid rise in cases this year poses a significant threat to that status, particularly for young and unvaccinated children. The measles vaccination has been instrumental in preventing an estimated 57 million deaths between 2000 and 2022.
Despite the US setting a target vaccination rate of 95%, coverage among kindergarteners has fallen below that threshold in recent years. Measles outbreaks are more prevalent in conflict-affected and fragile countries, underlining the importance of high, uniform, and equitable routine immunization coverage.
In order to solidify and maintain gains in measles and rubella elimination, it is crucial that countries prioritize routine immunization efforts. With measles cases on the rise globally, public health officials are urging communities to ensure that individuals are up-to-date on their vaccinations to prevent further outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
