Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, noted that the factors contributing to the resurgence of measles are still present. She emphasized that until a high level of vaccination among children is achieved and vaccine hesitancy is overcome, the risk of severe illness and fatalities will remain high.
Hans Henri P. Kluge, head of the WHO Regional Office for Europe, added that over the past three years, more than 200,000 people have contracted measles. He called for achieving 95% vaccination coverage in every community to stop the spread of the virus, as well as addressing immunity gaps and improving epidemiological monitoring.
According to the European Regional Verification Commission for Measles and Rubella Elimination, the number of countries with sustained or newly emerging endemic transmission of the infection has increased to 19, marking the most significant setback in the fight against measles in recent years.
WHO and UNICEF continue to collaborate with governments and international partners to strengthen immunization programs, enhance healthcare worker training, and conduct additional vaccination campaigns.
Photo on the main page is illustrative: Shutterstock.
