Measles cases globally have increased by 20% from 2022, with over 10 million people infected, revealing inadequate immunization coverage is driving the surge in cases. Worldwide, there were an estimated 10.3 million measles cases in 2023, according to a newly released report from the World Health Organization and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
About 107,500 people died from measles worldwide in 2023 and children under 5 were mostly affected, new data shows. Related Stories Nigeria’s disease burden could reach 21% due to climate change – Report WHO lists 17 endemic pathogens that urgently require new vaccines globally Measles is one of the world’s most contagious infectious diseases caused by a virus. With two doses of the measles vaccine, it is preventable; yet more than 22 million children missed their first dose of measles vaccine in 2023.
Globally, an estimated 83% of children received their first dose of measles vaccine in 2023, while only 74% received the recommended second dose. At least coverage of 95% or greater of two doses of measles vaccine is needed in each country and community to prevent outbreaks, the study showed. “Measles vaccine has saved more lives than any other vaccine in the past 50 years,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
“To save even more lives and stop this deadly virus from harming the most vulnerable, we must invest in immunization for every person, no matter where they live.” Also, C.