After a lull for a few years during the COVID lockdowns, measles outbreaks are once again on the rise in many countries, including an increase in international measles outbreaks.
Not surprisingly, this follows an increase in international travel.
International Measles Outbreaks 2023
While we were seeing record low cases following COVID-19 travel restrictions, mask wearing, and social distancing practices, measles is once again on the rise in regions of the world wear it is still endemic.
In Yemen alone, nearly 413 people, have already died this year in a measles outbreak!
Surprised?
“Almost 41 countries have already put off, or may put off, their measles campaigns for 2020 or 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This increases the risk of bigger outbreaks around the world, including the United States.”
Global Measles Outbreaks
Although reported cases and deaths are still far lower than the highs of 2019, without extensive immunization campaigns, we will likely quickly climb back up to record levels.
“Measles outbreaks result from measles virus finding immunity gaps in the population, combined with travel-related importation and exportation of measles cases and population mixing.”
Measles outbreaks strategic response plan: 2021–2023
Whether it is because of a lack of access to vaccines or vaccine hesitancy, we must work to get everyone vaccinated and protected and stop these measles outbreaks.
“The fact that measles outbreaks are occurring at the highest levels we’ve seen in a generation is unthinkable when we have a safe, cost-effective, and proven vaccine. No child should die from a vaccine-preventable disease. We are proud to chart a bold way forward with partners to close gaps in access to immunization and rapidly respond to outbreaks so everyone, everywhere can live healthy lives.”
Elizabeth Cousens, President & CEO, United Nations Foundation
In addition to immunization campaigns in those countries with measles outbreaks, it is important to make sure you are vaccinated and protected if traveling anywhere internationally, as there are also “smaller” outbreaks in non-endemic countries to be mindful of, including:
- 7,243 measles cases in Romania (8 deaths, including 4 children too young to be vaccinated)
- 4,211 cases in Sudan
- 2,529 cases in Afghanistan
- 2,242 cases in the Philippines
- 1,200 cases in Malaysia
- 1,026 cases in Uzbekistan
- 989 cases in Nepal
- 772 cases in South Africa
- 750 cases in Sri Lanka
- 650 cases in England, UK
- 585 cases in China
- 518 cases in Armenia
- 294 cases in Rajikistan
- 216 cases in Austria
- 118 cases in France
- 82 cases in Germany
- 69 cases in Belgium
- 65 cases in Ukraine
- 60 cases in Bangladesh
- 60 cases in Thailand
- 58 cases in Vietnam
- 47 cases in Bhutan
- 44 cases in Italy
- 41 cases in Thailand
- 32 cases in Switzerland
- 37 cases in Poland
- 26 cases in Australia
- 26 cases in Japan
- 14 cases in New Zealand
- 13 cases in Spain
- 13 cases in Israel
- 11 cases in Sweden
- 5 cases in Ireland (1 death)
Do you remember how many children died during the last big measles outbreak in Romania?
Remember, two doses of the MMR vaccine are your best protection against measles!
More on Global Measles Outbreaks
- Where Is Measles on the Rise?
- How Contagious Is Measles?
- Why Are You Still Worried About the MMR Vaccine?
- What to Do If Your Child Is Exposed to Measles
- Who Dies with Measles
- How Many People Have Died from Measles in 2019?
- CDC – Global Measles Outbreaks
- WHO – Provisional monthly measles and rubella data
- ECDC – Communicable disease threats report, 4-10 February 2024, week 6
- UNICEF and WHO warn of ‘perfect storm’ of conditions for measles outbreaks, affecting children
- Measles & Rubella Strategic Framework 2021-2030
- WHO – Measles outbreaks strategic response plan: 2021–2023
- Measles cases are spiking globally
- Situația rujeolei în România la data de 05.03.2024
- CDC Travel Alert – Measles
- WHO – Measles Outbreak Toolkit Updated | September 2022
Last Updated on March 14, 2025