Overview
- An estimated 10.3 million measles cases were reported globally in 2023, with nearly 110,000 deaths, primarily among children under five.
- The increase in measles cases is attributed to larger outbreaks in countries with better nutrition and healthcare systems.
- Despite high vaccination rates, 22 million children missed their first measles vaccine dose last year, leading to lower immunity.
- Germany has observed a rise in measles cases since 2023, though numbers remain below pre-pandemic levels, with potential for imported cases.
- WHO officials stress that achieving a 95% vaccination rate in all regions is crucial to preventing future outbreaks.