Measles deaths drop 88% since 2000, but alarming rise in cases sparks global concern

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by WHO, click this post to read the original article.

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Global immunization efforts have significantly reduced measles deaths by 88% between 2000 and 2024, saving nearly 59 million lives, according to the WHO. Despite this progress, around 95,000 people, mainly children under five, still died from measles in 2024, highlighting the preventable nature of these deaths. While mortality is down, measles infections surged to an estimated 11 million globally in 2024—almost 800,000 more than in 2019. WHO officials stress the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage, as measles remains one of the most contagious viruses and takes advantage of any gaps in immunization efforts.

In different regions, trends have varied significantly. Cases rose sharply in the Eastern Mediterranean (86%), Europe (47%), and South-East Asia (42%), while the African Region saw a 40% drop in cases and a 50% decline in deaths—thanks to better vaccination rates. You should note that even in regions where children are less likely to die from measles due to better healthcare and nutrition, the disease can still cause severe complications like blindness and brain damage.

As of 2024, only 84% of children received their first measles vaccine dose and 76% received the second—below the 95% target needed to prevent outbreaks. Over 30 million children remained under-protected, with three-quarters of them in vulnerable regions like Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean. The WHO points out that insufficient vaccine coverage is allowing measles to resurge, putting global health goals at risk.

The number of large measles outbreaks also soared in 2024, affecting 59 countries—nearly three times more than in 2021. While improved surveillance has helped countries respond to these outbreaks, funding cuts to labs and vaccination programs threaten to reverse progress. If you’re concerned about future outbreaks, experts say more stable financing and expanded partnerships are essential.

Progress toward eliminating measles remains slow. By the end of 2024, 81 countries were measles-free, with a few more achieving elimination in 2025. However, even high-income countries like Canada lost elimination status due to weakening immunization coverage. To reach the global goal, you need stronger political will, sustained investment, and a commitment to ensuring all children receive two vaccine doses, especially in communities where coverage is still too low.