Measles cases in Europe are on track to surpass the total number reported in 2023, according to a worrying new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN children’s agency (UNICEF).
Alarming Numbers:
- In the first three months of 2024 alone, 56,634 measles cases were reported across 45 European countries, with four deaths.
- This already surpasses half the cases reported throughout 2023 (61,070 cases and 13 deaths).
Children Most at Risk:
- The rise is particularly concerning for young children, with over half of 2023’s cases requiring hospitalization.
- Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, emphasizes that “even one case of measles should be a call to action.”
Causes of the Outbreak:
- The pandemic’s impact on vaccination coverage is a major factor.
- Vaccine hesitancy and misinformation are also contributing to the spread.
Urgent Action Needed:
- WHO and UNICEF urge European countries to:
- Increase vaccination efforts.
- Implement public health measures like case finding and contact tracing.
- Improve preparedness for future outbreaks.
Romania & Turkey Hit Hard:
- Romania leads Europe in measles cases, fueled by a strong anti-vaxxer movement.
- Turkey follows closely behind, with hundreds of cases reported monthly.
- Both countries have seen significant drops in vaccination rates in recent years.
The Takeaway:
Measles is a highly contagious and potentially deadly disease, but it’s also preventable with vaccination. This surge highlights the importance of robust public health measures and strong vaccination campaigns to protect children and communities.
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