Measles Outbreak Continues to Plague Europe: A Call to Action for Vaccination
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has released its latest monthly report, revealing a concerning trend in measles cases across Europe. From January to December 2025, a staggering 7,655 measles infections were reported in 30 countries, with eight fatalities linked to the disease. This number, while a significant decrease from the over 35,000 cases in 2024, is still alarmingly high and nearly double the cases reported in 2023.
Measles, a highly contagious respiratory infection, spreads easily through the air, making it crucial for large portions of the population to be immune to prevent its transmission. The ECDC emphasizes that at least 95% of the eligible population should receive two doses of the measles-containing vaccine, as recommended by national health authorities. However, a disturbing 80% of those who contracted measles in 2025 were unvaccinated, mirroring the situation in 2024.
Sabrina Bacci, Head of the ECDC's vaccine-preventable diseases and immunisation programme, highlights the urgency of the situation: "These numbers demonstrate that measles cases remain worryingly high despite a significant drop over the last year. Europe should be leading the world in measles elimination. We have a highly effective and safe vaccine, as well as the knowledge, resources, and robust surveillance tools to control this preventable disease. Measles is a serious and highly contagious illness. Individual vaccination not only protects the vaccinated but also safeguards those who cannot be vaccinated, as it reduces the spread of infections. Together, we can eliminate measles."
The data reveals a vulnerable demographic: unvaccinated or partially vaccinated infants under five years old accounted for 40% (3,072) of the reported measles infections in 2025. However, it's important to note that measles affects all age groups, with the vast majority of adults and adolescents with known vaccination status being unvaccinated. This underscores the need for adults and adolescents to verify their vaccination status and consider booster doses to protect themselves and their communities.
The majority of measles cases diagnosed in 2025 were locally acquired through community transmission within the reporting countries. This highlights the importance of vaccination as a preventive measure both at home and abroad.
ECDC's Recommendations:
- Encourages individuals to check their measles vaccination status and ensure they are fully protected, especially as measles infections peak during late winter and early spring.
- Advises travelers to verify their vaccination status well in advance of their journeys, as measles may be present at their destination.
- Provides considerations for adults and parents or caregivers, including:
- Checking vaccination status and ensuring MMR vaccination schedules are up to date.
- Recognizing typical measles symptoms: high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a characteristic red rash starting at the hairline.
- Seeking advice from healthcare professionals for any vaccination-related queries or guidance on vaccinating younger children.
As the year 2025's measles data continues to be compiled and submitted to the ECDC, it is anticipated that additional cases will be reported in the coming months.
