While global measles cases have fallen significantly since 2000, the world Health Organization is warning of a resurgence of the highly contagious disease, driven by declining vaccination rates and challenges in reaching vulnerable populations. Despite a 71% drop in cases since the year 2000 [[1]], coverage remains below pre-pandemic levels, prompting concerns about potential outbreaks in previously protected regions. This report details the latest data and the WHO‘s recommendations for preventing further spread of this preventable disease.
Global measles vaccination rates are improving, but remain below pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned Friday. The agency cited vaccine misinformation and, crucially, difficulties in reaching the most vulnerable populations as significant obstacles to wider immunization coverage. This comes as measles, a highly contagious and potentially deadly disease, is experiencing a resurgence worldwide.
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In 2024, global coverage with the first dose of the measles vaccine reached 84%, up from 83% in 2023 and 71% in 2000. However, this remains lower than the 86% achieved before the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO reported. These figures highlight the ongoing challenges in maintaining and improving global immunization rates.
The report also revealed that 20.6 million children worldwide did not receive their first measles vaccine dose in 2024, with over half of these children located in Africa. Measles is highly contagious, and achieving at least 95% vaccination coverage with two doses is crucial to interrupt transmission.
“It’s a serious disease that can be fatal; children under five years of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk of severe complications and death,” said Kate O’Brien, Director of the WHO’s Department of Immunization and Vaccines, during a press briefing. The WHO’s warning underscores the continued threat posed by measles, even with existing vaccines.
Coverage with the second dose of the measles vaccine has improved significantly since 2000, increasing from 17% to 76% in 2024. This progress demonstrates the potential for expanding vaccine access and protection.
However, persistent gaps in immunity have fueled a resurgence of outbreaks, with 59 countries experiencing significant or disruptive outbreaks last year – a record number since 2003, according to the WHO. This increase in outbreaks highlights the vulnerability of populations with incomplete vaccination coverage.
“The fact that 25% of outbreaks are occurring in countries considered to be measles-free is very alarming,” noted Diana Chang Blanc, Head of Unit of the WHO’s Essential Programme on Immunization. This suggests a potential for re-establishment of measles transmission in previously protected areas.
Several countries in the Americas have experienced outbreaks in 2025. Canada recently lost its measles-free status, the WHO noted, and experts suggest the United States – currently experiencing its worst outbreak in over 30 years – could follow. These developments signal a concerning trend in measles resurgence across the Americas.
“Every case we see today […] reminds us of what happens when vaccination coverage declines and health systems fail to reach every child,” O’Brien emphasized. This statement underscores the importance of robust vaccination programs and accessible healthcare for all.
“Vaccine Hesitancy”
The WHO identified several contributing factors, including the lingering effects of the “cumulative decline in vaccination coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic,” which disrupted healthcare services. The pandemic’s impact on routine immunization programs continues to be felt globally.
“Vaccine hesitancy” is another factor, Chang Blanc admitted, observing that misinformation “influences confidence and demand for vaccination services.” Addressing vaccine hesitancy through accurate information and community engagement is crucial for improving vaccination rates.
However, the primary challenge remains reaching certain populations. “It’s about access for the populations who need it most, those who face multiple challenges, and integrating them into the health system,” she stressed. Ensuring equitable access to vaccination is essential for protecting vulnerable communities.
To address these gaps, the WHO recommends “strengthening primary and routine health care systems, adapting strategies and innovative approaches to reach the most difficult-to-reach populations, and conducting mass vaccination campaigns” where routine vaccination is insufficient. These strategies aim to improve vaccine coverage and protect communities at risk.
The organization also advises health authorities to strengthen “capacities for rapid outbreak response,” increase political commitment and local ownership, all with the support of “sustainable funding.” Sustained investment in public health infrastructure is vital for preventing and controlling measles outbreaks.
“A world without measles and rubella is only possible if every child, everywhere, in every country and even in the most remote regions, is immunized,” Chang Blanc reminded. This vision requires a concerted global effort to ensure universal access to measles vaccination.
In 2024, the organization estimates that 11 million people were infected with measles worldwide, nearly 800,000 more than before the 2019 pandemic, but progress is generally significant when compared to the roughly 38 million cases reported in 2000. These figures demonstrate the impact of vaccination efforts, while also highlighting the need for continued vigilance.
The number of deaths in 2024 (95,000) is among the lowest recorded since 2000. Most deaths occurred among children under five years of age, and 80% of deaths were in Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean region. Reducing measles-related mortality requires targeted vaccination efforts in these high-risk regions.
