Global measles cases surged by 20% in 2023, with an estimated 10.3 million infections reported, according to new data from the World Health Organisation,(WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This increase according to the organisations is primarily driven by inadequate immunisation coverage, with millions of children missing vital doses of the measles vaccine.
“Measles vaccine has saved more lives than any other vaccine in the past 50 years,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “To stop this deadly virus from harming the most vulnerable, we must invest in immunisation for every person, no matter where they live.”
Despite measles being preventable with two doses of the vaccine, more than 22 million children missed their first dose in 2023.
In a joint statement issued by the organisations globally, only 83% of children received their first dose, and just 74% received the second.
The WHO and CDC emphasise that achieving at least 95% coverage with both doses is crucial to preventing outbreaks and protecting communities.
“Measles infections are rising, endangering lives,” said CDC Director Mandy Cohen. “The measles vaccine is our best protection against the virus, and we must continue to invest in efforts to increase access.”
In 2023, 57 countries experienced large or disruptive measles outbreaks, a 60% increase from 2022.
The African, Eastern Mediterranean, European, South-East Asia, and Western Pacific regions saw the most significant upticks in cases, with nearly half of the large outbreaks occurring in Africa.
The crisis has also led to tragic deaths. An estimated 107,500 people, mostly young children, died from measles last year.
Although this represents an 8% decrease from 2022, the toll remains unacceptably high.
Measles can cause severe complications, including blindness and brain damage, particularly in infants and young children.
The WHO’s Immunisation Agenda 2030 goal of measles elimination is now under threat. Urgent efforts are needed to improve vaccination coverage, especially in regions affected by conflict and instability.
