Measles in Europe
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cases of measles in Europe surged by a worrying 400 per cent in 2017. A total of 21,315 cases were observed on the continent, including 35 deaths. The previous year saw 5,273 cases, a record low. The major contributions, according to WHO, are a drop-off in the number of immunisations, issues with vaccine supplies, generally low rates of vaccination among vulnerable groups, and overall poor monitoring of the situation by health authorities.
“Every new person affected by measles in Europe reminds us that unvaccinated children and adults, regardless of where they live, remain at risk of catching the disease and spreading it to others who may not be able to get vaccinated,” said Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, Regional Director of WHO in Europe.