Measles Makes a Comeback: Why Vaccination Rates Matter

Measles Returns with a Vengeance

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that several European countries, including the UK, have lost their measles-free status due to a surge in infections.

Countries Affected

• UK
• Spain
• Austria
• Armenia
• Azerbaijan
• Uzbekistan

The Danger of Measles

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to:

• Serious health complications
• Long-term issues
• Death

Prevention is Possible

The disease is entirely preventable with a vaccine. However, declining vaccination rates have led to its resurgence.

Global Impact

• Canada lost its elimination status in 2023.
• The US is struggling to maintain its status as infections rise.
• France and Romania already have regular measles transmission.

Criteria for Measles-Free Status

A country must have no locally transmitted cases of the same strain for at least 12 months.

UK's Vaccination Rates

• Required rate: 95%
• Actual rate (2024): 84.4%
• Confirmed cases in England (2024): 2,911 (the highest since 2012)

Call to Action

The UK Health Security Agency urges all children to get vaccinated to protect themselves from measles.

UK's Elimination Status Timeline

• Gained: 2016
• Lost: 2018
• Regained: 2021
• Lost Again: 2024