The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has raised concerns about the resurgence of measles and pertussis cases across the European Union. Despite significant reductions in mortality due to vaccine-preventable diseases, ECDC Director Andrea Ammon warns that these illnesses continue to circulate and cause suffering among unprotected or vulnerable individuals.
Measles cases have been on the rise since 2023, with over 5,700 cases and five deaths reported between March 2023 and February 2024. The highly contagious nature of measles requires a vaccination rate of at least 95% to prevent its spread. ECDC data also indicates a tenfold increase in pertussis cases, a respiratory infection commonly known as whooping cough, since mid-2023.
Newborn babies and infants are particularly vulnerable to severe outcomes from both measles and pertussis. Community immunity is crucial for their protection as they are too young to be vaccinated. Ammon emphasizes the need for widespread immunization, as it not only safeguards those who receive the vaccine but also provides indirect protection for individuals who cannot be vaccinated due to age or weakened immune systems.
ECDC attributes the rise in cases to several factors, including increased disease circulation following a pandemic-related decline and a drop in vaccination uptake. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 1.8 million infants in the European Region missed their measles vaccinations between 2020 and 2022, partly due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, misinformation about vaccine safety has contributed to a decline in global vaccination coverage.
Ammon stresses the importance of vaccines, especially in the face of emerging health challenges and the resurgence of previously controlled diseases. ‘We must not get complacent,’ she said, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and vaccination efforts.
