MEASLES cases in the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA) have risen dramatically over the past year, with numbers far exceeding those reported in 2023, indicating continued circulation of the virus and an anticipated increase in infections during spring 2025.
Between February 2024–January 2025, a total of 32,265 measles cases were recorded across the region, a stark rise from the 2,361 cases reported in 2023. Romania accounted for the vast majority, with 27,568 infections and 18 measles-related deaths, followed by Italy (1,097 cases), Germany (637), Belgium (551), and Austria (542). Ireland also recorded a measles-related death. The resurgence follows a period of low transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic but has since accelerated, raising concerns over ongoing gaps in vaccination coverage.
The data highlight that the majority of those diagnosed with measles had not been vaccinated. Of the cases reported in the past year with known vaccination history, 86% were unvaccinated, including 84% of infected children aged 1–4 years, despite national immunisation programmes targeting this age group. This trend highlights a pressing need for improved vaccine uptake among children, adolescents, and adults who have missed routine immunisations.
Measles remains one of the most contagious viral infections, spreading easily through airborne droplets. Without adequate population immunity, outbreaks are likely to persist, putting vulnerable groups, including unvaccinated infants, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women, at risk of severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and death.
To prevent further outbreaks, at least 95% of the population must receive two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, yet only four EU/EEA countries (Hungary, Malta, Portugal, and Slovakia) have met this threshold. Inadequate vaccine coverage leaves communities vulnerable, prompting health authorities to urge individuals to check their immunisation status and consult healthcare professionals if unsure.
With measles outbreaks reported globally, healthcare professionals recommend verifying vaccination status before international travel, as the MMR vaccine requires at least 2 weeks to become fully effective. Strengthening immunisation efforts remains critical in containing the current outbreak and protecting public health.
Ada Enesco, EMJ
Reference
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Measles on the rise again in Europe: time to check your vaccination status. 2025. Available at: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/news-events/measles-rise-again-europe-time-check-your-vaccination-status. Last accessed: 13 March 2025.
