The measles vaccine is made in two stages. Measles incidence in Europe and Central Asia has fallen, but danger remains Healthcare
The number of measles cases in Europe and Central Asia in 2025 has decreased significantly compared to 2024. This is evidenced by preliminary data from 53 countries in the WHO European Region. However, the threat of new outbreaks remains, warn the Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
In 2025, there were 33,998 cases of measles reported in the region – almost 75 percent less than the year before, when there were 127,412 cases. The decrease is associated both with the implementation of special measures and with a gradual decrease in the number of those who are susceptible to the infection – after many people in areas with low vaccination rates have already been ill with it.
Operational measures and the fight against misinformation
WHO Regional Director Hans Kluge noted that over the past three years, more than 200 thousand people have become ill with measles in the region. Despite the encouraging dynamics, 2025 figures are still higher than most years since 2000. In a number of countries, the number of cases was even higher than in 2024. Cases of measles continue to be reported in 2026. However, many of them could have been prevented with wider routine immunization and more rapid response to outbreaks.
“Although the number of cases has decreased, the reasons that led to the resurgence of this deadly disease in recent years have not gone away – and must be addressed,” said UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, Regina de Dominicis. All children should have access to vaccinations, she said. There is also a need to combat the spread of misinformation about vaccines.
Based on country data for 2024, the European Regional Commission for the Verification Elimination of Measles and Rubella concluded that the number States where endemic measles persists or has been newly established increased to 19, compared to 12 countries a year earlier.
Consequences of the spread of infection
Preparedness for and response to outbreaks and the achievement of measles elimination remain public health priorities in Europe and Central Asia. UNICEF and WHO are working with governments and with the support of partners to prevent and control infection by engaging with communities, training health workers, strengthening immunization programs and surveillance systems, and conducting catch-up vaccination campaigns.
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses. One case can infect up to 18 unvaccinated people, making measles about 12 times more contagious than the flu. In addition to hospitalization and death, the disease can lead to severe long-term complications. It can also “erase” the body’s immune memory of how to fight infections for months and even years to come. As a result, those who have recovered from the virus become more vulnerable to other diseases that can have fatal consequences.
Two doses of the measles vaccine provide up to 97 percent of lifelong protection. To prevent outbreaks and achieve herd immunity—which protects both infants too young to receive vaccination and people for whom it is contraindicated for medical reasons, such as immunodeficiency—it is necessary to immunize at least 95 percent of the population.