Europe records highest measles cases in 25 years: WHO

The European Region has recorded its highest number of measles cases in 25 years, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), whilst cases across the European Union have risen significantly over the past twelve months.

According to the WHO report, 127,350 measles cases were reported in 2024 across the European Region, double the number recorded in 2023 and the highest figure since 1997.

“Children under 5 years represented more than 40% of reported cases in the WHO European Region, which includes 53 countries in Europe and Central Asia,” the report stated.

More than half of the recorded cases required hospitalisation. “A total of 38 deaths have been reported, based on preliminary data received until 6 March 2025,” the WHO added.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) noted in its own report released last week that “data from the last twelve months show a significant increase in cases compared to 2023” and estimates that “the number of cases will likely increase in spring 2025”.

“Vaccination with two doses of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is the most effective way for protection,” the ECDC added, highlighting that “eight out of ten individuals diagnosed with measles in the past year were unvaccinated”.

From 1 February 2024 to 31 January 2025, a total of 32,265 people were diagnosed with measles across the EU. During this period, Romania (27,568), Italy (1,097), Germany (637), Belgium (551) and Austria (542) reported the highest number of cases, with Romania recording 18 deaths and Ireland one death. 

The ECDC explains that “measles is an extremely contagious disease” that “spreads easily from person to person through the air and quickly affects communities with unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated individuals”.

The disease can “affect adults if they have not been fully vaccinated or because they have already contracted measles,” making it equally important for adults to check their vaccination status to prevent illness and further transmission.

Health authorities recommend that adults and parents check their vaccination status to ensure they and their children are up to date with the MMR vaccination schedule, whether staying at home or planning to travel.

Those uncertain about their vaccination history should consult a healthcare professional.

Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. “A red rash that typically appears at the hairline and then spreads to the rest of the body is a key characteristic of measles,” the ECDC stated.