2024-11-14 18:00:00
Vaccination against measles, in a hospital in Podgorica, capital of Montenegro, February 16, 2020. SAVO PRELEVIC / AFP
The number of measles cases worldwide is increasing, while vaccination coverage stagnates. In 2023, 10.3 million cases of this highly contagious viral disease were recorded, an increase of 20% compared to the previous year, according to estimates published jointly, Thursday, November 14, by the World Health Organization. Health (WHO) and the US government agency the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This clear increase is primarily due to insufficient vaccination coverage in many countries. Globally, it is estimated that 83% of children have received a first dose of vaccine, and only 74% have been administered a second injection. However, for a population to be immunized, we consider that 95% of children must have access to this two-dose vaccination schedule.
Access to these vaccines has been disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic, reaching vaccination coverage of only 81% in 2021, the lowest level since 2008. While many efforts have been made to reach the approximately 22 million children unprotected from the virus, vaccination coverage still remains below pre-pandemic levels (86% in 2019). As a result, 57 countries experienced a major measles epidemic in 2023, mainly in Africa, the Near East, the Middle East and South Asia.
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Despite this increase in cases in one year, the number of deaths from the disease decreased by 8%, from 116,800 victims in 2022 to 107,500 in 2023. This is notably explained by by the fact that “the increase in cases has occurred in countries and regions where children with measles are less likely to die, due to better nutritional status and better access to health services”explain the organizations in a press release published Thursday.
The WHO Europe region, a vast territory stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and bringing together 53 countries, saw the number of patients explode in 2023, going from an incidence of 0.9 cases per million inhabitants in 2022 to 74.7 in 2023. On the Central Asian side, Kazakhstan accounts for almost half of this upsurge, while in the European Union, Romania is one of the most affected countries.
Eradication possible
“The increase in cases is certainly significant in the Europe region, but from a low threshold”nuance Natasha Crowcroft, WHO technical advisor for measles and rubella. Mortality is lower there than elsewhere (22 deaths in 2023) because vaccination coverage is high, at 95% for the first dose and 91% for the second. “But more than 70% of deaths occur in Africa”specifies the advisor, with nearly 76,000 deaths in 2023.
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How can healthcare systems effectively combat vaccine misinformation to improve immunization rates?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Marković, Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Marković. The recent report from WHO and the CDC highlights a staggering increase in measles cases worldwide. Can you help us understand the implications of this rise?
**Dr. Marković:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The increase in measles cases—over 10 million in 2023—is quite alarming. It reflects not just a failure in vaccination efforts, but also the impact of the pandemic on public health systems. Measles is highly contagious, and without sufficient vaccination coverage, we can expect more outbreaks.
**Editor:** The report indicated that vaccination rates have stagnated, with only 74% of children receiving the second dose. Why is that figure so concerning?
**Dr. Marković:** Vaccination against measles requires two doses for effective immunity. To achieve herd immunity, at least 95% of the population must be vaccinated. When only 74% are fully immunized, we leave a vulnerable population at risk, which can lead to outbreaks, especially in communities with lower vaccination rates.
**Editor:** What factors are contributing to the decline in vaccination coverage?
**Dr. Marković:** There are several factors. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine healthcare services, making it difficult for families to access vaccinations. Additionally, misinformation about vaccines is widespread, which leads to hesitancy among parents. Economic instability in some regions also limits access to healthcare services.
**Editor:** The report notes that 57 countries experienced significant measles outbreaks in 2023. Are certain regions more affected than others?
**Dr. Marković:** Yes, indeed. Regions like Africa, the Near East, and parts of South Asia have been particularly hard hit. Limited healthcare infrastructure, ongoing conflict, and lack of resources can exacerbate the situation. In these regions, public health initiatives are crucial to enhance vaccination efforts and raise awareness about the importance of immunization.
**Editor:** What can be done to combat this alarming trend and improve vaccination rates?
**Dr. Marković:** We need a multifaceted approach. Governments and health organizations must prioritize vaccination programs, especially in underserved communities. Engaging with local communities to build trust and provide education around the importance of vaccines is essential. We must also combat misinformation aggressively through clear communication and outreach efforts. it’s vital to restore and strengthen healthcare systems post-COVID-19 to ensure all children have access to necessary vaccinations.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Marković, for your insights. It’s clear that a concerted effort is needed to turn the tide on measles cases globally.
**Dr. Marković:** Thank you for shedding light on this critical issue. It’s up to all of us to advocate for vaccination and public health advocacy.
