Health experts warn that declining immunisation rates and immunity gaps pose a heightened risk of a global measles resurgence this year, with outbreaks spreading across continents despite the disease’s preventability.
Health experts are warning that measles could surge again worldwide this year as immunisation rates slip and immunity gaps widen. The disease, which spreads with unusual speed and can lead to serious complications, remains one of the most contagious infections known and has no specific cure, making vaccination the main line of defence.
The concern comes as the World Health Organization estimates that about 11 million people could contract measles globally in 2026. That would follow a year in which cases already climbed sharply: the agency said in November 2025 that an estimated 11 million infections were recorded in 2024, roughly 800,000 more than before the pandemic in 2019, even though deaths fell dramatically over the longer term thanks to vaccination. WHO said the measles vaccine had helped cut deaths by 88% since 2000 and saved nearly 59 million lives.
Outbreaks have been reported across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas, according to WHO and the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC said in June 2026 that measles is spreading globally and can easily cross borders, particularly when imported cases reach communities with low vaccination coverage. UNICEF and WHO also reported in February 2026 that cases in Europe and Central Asia dropped in 2025 compared with the previous year, but they warned the risk of fresh outbreaks remains because the virus continues to circulate in under-vaccinated groups.
Public health authorities say communities need vaccination coverage of at least 95% to prevent outbreaks and maintain herd immunity. A single dose protects most people, but health officials still recommend two doses for stronger protection. In Europe, average coverage for one dose is about 94%, while two-dose coverage is about 88%. In lower- and middle-income countries, coverage is far weaker: about 80% of young children receive at least one dose and around 70% get two, leaving millions exposed.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
