A joint report by the WHO and the CDC found that there were 10.3 million cases of measles worldwide last year. This represents a 20% increase in global cases from 2022, WHO and CDC data show. Measles cases have increased by more than 200% in the European region in the last year, amid a global increase, according to the new annual report, and in Romania there were the most.
In 2023 there were more than 306,000 cases in the region, which includes parts of Central Asia, up from about 99,700 in 2022.
What is the situation in Europe?
“There was a very large increase in the European region, but it went from just under 100,000 cases to just over 300,000 cases,” Crowcroft said.
“So even though it was an increase of more than 200%, the absolute numbers are much lower,” she added.
According to experts, this was due to stalled vaccination coverage and an increase in the number of epidemics.
The report shows that the number of cases in Europe remains relatively low compared to other regions.
According to a recent report by the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), 30 countries in the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area reported a total of more than 18,000 measles cases between September 2023 and August 2024.
Romania had the highest number of measles cases in the EU, with more than 14,000 cases reported during the period, according to the report.
21 deaths in Romania
The latest data reported by the National Center for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases (CNSCBT), within the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), indicate that between January 1, 2023 and September 1, 2024 (last reporting week), in Romania 23,972 confirmed cases of measles and 21 deaths were recorded.
At the same time, between December 6, 2023 and September 1, 2024, according to the data extracted from the RENV, 244,622 doses of MMR vaccine were used, of which 38,540 doses were used for children aged between 9 and 11 months.
The Ministry of Health declared the end of the measles epidemic at the national level, on August 28, as the weekly number of new measles cases decreased significantly in Romania, after the peaks reached in the spring. The epidemic was declared in early December 2023, given the alarming increase in measles cases, as well as the large number of hospitalizations in the pediatric and infectious disease wards of infected children.
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Measles Madness: The Unbelievable Comeback
Ah, measles, that old classic. You might think this is a disease that would’ve been left behind in a dusty medical book, but no! It seems to be making a comeback, and this isn’t the kind of comeback you cheer for. According to a sizzling joint report by the WHO and CDC, we’ve got a whopping 10.3 million cases worldwide last year. A 20% jump from 2022! That’s right, folks, measles is the comeback kid, and it’s not just in Europe; it’s globetrotting!
The European Fiasco
But let’s shine a spotlight on Europe, shall we? Brace yourself: measles cases have soared by over 200% in this region! Thanks to a mix of stalled vaccination coverage and an alarming number of epidemics, we’ve gone from just under 100,000 cases to a staggering more than 306,000 cases in the European region. I mean, it’s always nice when numbers give you a reason to celebrate, but this isn’t quite what you want to hear at a dinner party.
Now, crowds are gathering to ask—what’s cooking in Romania? Drumroll, please… it’s a measles epidemic! The country reportedly holds the title for the most cases in the EU with over 14,000 confirmed cases. I’ve heard of taking risks in business, but your health shouldn’t be a franchise operation!
The Serious Side: Deaths in Romania
Now, let’s talk about something that’s not so funny. Between January 1, 2023 and September 1, 2024, Romania recorded 23,972 confirmed measles cases and—grimly—21 deaths.
It’s heartbreaking, really. Just imagine: kids and families battling something that could’ve been easily preventable. The Ministry of Health was finally compelled to declare the end of the measles epidemic on August 28, but the peaks earlier in the spring had everyone raising eyebrows (and not in a good way). Hospital wards were crowded with sick kids while the clocks kept ticking.
Why So Many Cases?
The report indicates that the primary catalyst for this spike is the stalled vaccination rates. You’d think that in 2023, we’d be better equipped to handle this kind of problem, wouldn’t you? Meanwhile, while we’re all distracted scrolling through social media, measles is sneaking up behind us and—surprise!—it’s not even wearing a face mask.
In 2023, Romania administered 244,622 doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, but isn’t it a shame that those numbers can’t turn back time? If only vaccines could also bring back common sense!
The Bottom Line
Folks, we’re living in a world where we can send people to the moon but somehow can’t manage to get everyone vaccinated against measles. It’s a tangled mess of misinformation, fear, and stigma, but as we giggle and gasp our way through life, let’s not delay our vaccine schedules. Because let’s face it—the only burning desire we should have is to enjoy Measles-free summer picnics, not adding “measles survivor” to our résumés!
So, keep your vaccination records up to date, get your kids jabbed, and let’s put measles where it belongs—out of style.
For more details on the shocking measles resurgence, read the full report here.
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What are the key factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy in Europe as discussed by Dr. Alice Crowcroft?
**Interview with Dr. Alice Crowcroft, Epidemiologist at the WHO**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Crowcroft. Your recent report with the CDC highlights a concerning rise in measles cases globally. Can you explain what led to this 20% increase in cases?
**Dr. Crowcroft:** Thank you for having me. The increase in measles cases can be primarily attributed to stalled vaccination coverage in many regions. We’ve seen a significant decline in immunization rates, which has created opportunities for outbreaks. Additionally, there are numerous epidemics occurring simultaneously, particularly in areas that had previously controlled the spread of measles.
**Editor:** Europe, in particular, has seen a staggering 200% rise in cases. What specific factors have contributed to this surge in your analysis?
**Dr. Crowcroft:** Yes, Europe’s increase—as you noted, we jumped from just under 100,000 cases to over 306,000—is alarming. Factors include widespread vaccine hesitancy, misinformation about vaccines, and the compounded challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted routine immunization services. Romania, for instance, has reported over 14,000 cases, highlighting the severity of the situation.
**Editor:** It’s critical to acknowledge the human cost as well. In Romania, what is the current status concerning measles-related fatalities?
**Dr. Crowcroft:** Tragically, between January 2023 and September 2024, Romania saw nearly 24,000 confirmed cases and 21 deaths. Each of these cases represents a preventable tragedy. The Ministry of Health has recently declared an end to the epidemic, but these numbers remind us why vigilance is vital, especially in the context of vaccination.
**Editor:** What measures are being taken to address the stalled vaccination coverage and prevent future outbreaks?
**Dr. Crowcroft:** Public health initiatives are being ramped up, focusing on increasing awareness about the importance of vaccination, combating misinformation, and improving access to vaccines. It’s crucial for communities to understand that immunization not only protects individuals but also enhances community health by building herd immunity.
**Editor:** With 2024 on the horizon, what should be the public’s takeaway regarding measles and vaccination?
**Dr. Crowcroft:** The public needs to be aware that measles is not a disease of the past; it’s a current threat that can be significantly mitigated through vaccination. I urge everyone to consult with healthcare providers to ensure that they and their children are up to date with their measles vaccinations. Prevention is key, and we all have a role to play in protecting our communities.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Crowcroft, for shedding light on this pressing issue. We appreciate your insights.
**Dr. Crowcroft:** Thank you for bringing attention to this important topic. It’s crucial that we keep the conversation going.