Measles Cases Decline in Europe, But Concerns Remain
Provisional data for 2025 indicates a significant decrease in measles cases across Europe compared to 2024, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. However, experts caution that infection rates were still twice as high in 2024 as they were in 2023.
The 2025 Data: A Step in the Right Direction
From January to December 2025, 30 European Union and European Economic Area countries reported a total of 7,655 measles cases. The highest number of cases typically occurs during late winter and early spring, representing the period of greatest infection risk.
Vaccination: The Key to Prevention
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air. Achieving sufficient collective immunity within populations is the only effective way to prevent its spread. At least 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated with two doses of the measles vaccine to protect those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants or individuals with certain health conditions.
Statistics reveal that 80% of those who contracted measles were unvaccinated. Of the reported cases, eight patients unfortunately died: four in France, three in Romania, and one in the Netherlands.
Children Most Affected, But Adults at Risk
In 2025, 40% of all cases – 3,072 individuals – were children under the age of five. However, measles as well affects adolescents and adults, and a significant proportion of those infected had not received any vaccine doses.
Expert Concerns and Ongoing Vigilance
Sabrina Bači, Head of the Vaccination and Preventable Diseases Programme at the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, emphasizes that despite the decrease in incidence, measles remains a serious public health concern. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also contributes to the protection of vulnerable populations.
In 2025, Lithuania reported 11 measles cases, with the majority concentrated in Vilnius and Kaunas (three cases each). Five patients required hospitalization.
FAQ: Measles and Vaccination
Q: How contagious is measles?
A: Measles is extremely contagious and spreads through the air.
Q: What percentage of the population needs to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity?
A: At least 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated with two doses of the measles vaccine.
Q: Who is most at risk from measles?
A: Children under five years old are most commonly affected, but adolescents and adults can also contract the disease.
Q: What are the potential complications of measles?
A: While not detailed in the provided sources, measles can lead to serious complications, highlighting the importance of vaccination.
Q: What was the situation in Lithuania in 2025?
A: Lithuania reported 11 measles cases in 2025, with most cases in Vilnius and Kaunas.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about vaccination recommendations in your region and ensure your family is up-to-date on their measles vaccinations.
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