Global Measles Risk Escalates as Vaccination Gaps Widen
The World Health Organization warns of a significant increase in measles risk worldwide, urging immediate action to close vaccination gaps.
- More than half of the world's countries are at high or very high risk of measles outbreaks by the end of 2024, according to the WHO.
- Measles cases surged by 79% last year, with over 300,000 reported cases, signaling a growing public health concern.
- Missed vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic have led to significant gaps in immunization programs, exacerbating the risk of outbreaks.
- The WHO emphasizes the need for urgent action to protect children and fill vaccination gaps to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Deaths and outbreaks are not only a concern for low-income countries; middle and high-income countries are also at risk.