Measles Cases on the Rise in Europe: 7 Deaths Recorded in Two Countries
The resurgence of measles in Europe is causing concern, especially after seven deaths were recorded in two countries in just one month. Last year, cases of measles increased almost 45 times in Europe, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), with 42,200 people affected compared to 941 in 2022. The organization believes that the increase in infections is due to lower vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) predicts that measles cases will continue to increase in the EU in the coming months due to suboptimal vaccination coverage, the high probability of importing cases from areas with high circulation, and the upcoming seasonal peak of the virus.
In Italy, the situation is not any better. The Higher Institute of Health (ISS) reported an increase in measles cases, with 27 cases reported in the month of January 2024 alone, compared to 15 in 2022. The surge in cases is particularly worrisome in the Tuscany and Lazio regions, where a concentration of cases has been reported.
Health officials are urging the public to ensure they are vaccinated against measles, as it is a highly contagious but vaccine-preventable disease. Measles is known to be extremely contagious, with one case generating 16, making it more contagious than the first SARS-CoV-2.
Symptoms of measles include a dry cough, runny nose, burning eyes, and fever, followed by Koplik’s spots and a skin rash. The vaccine is effective and free, but the vaccination campaign against measles is struggling after a decrease in demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ECDC recommends reaching at least 95% vaccination coverage with two doses to prevent outbreaks.
The resurgence of measles in Europe is a clear reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage for all vaccine-preventable diseases to avoid unnecessary loss of human life. The alarming increase in cases across Europe is a cause for concern and highlights the need for immediate action to prevent further spread of the disease.