Six countries have lost their status as "measles-free."
According to information from the World Health Organization, Kyrgyzstan leads in the number of measles cases among Eurasian countries, as reported by Euronews.
WHO states that there are 1167 cases of the disease per million residents of the republic, resulting in 11 fatalities.
In Europe, the highest incidence is observed in Romania (222 cases per million) and Belgium (33 cases per million). In most other EU countries, the incidence is declining; however, in Ukraine, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Georgia, and Israel, according to data from 2025, it remains high.
After a serious outbreak in 2024, Austria, Azerbaijan, Armenia, the United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan lost their status as measles-free countries.
WHO emphasizes: "Until every country achieves 95% vaccination coverage and addresses gaps in immunity among all age groups, as well as strengthens epidemiological surveillance and ensures adequate response to outbreaks, the virus will continue to spread."
Measles is transmitted through airborne droplets, primarily through coughing and sneezing. It is one of the most contagious diseases, with a contagiousness 12 times higher than that of influenza.
One infected person can infect up to 18 unvaccinated individuals.
Children typically receive the first dose of the vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age.
Symptoms, which can last up to seven days, include a runny nose, cough, and red eyes. However, complications can be severe: pneumonia, blindness, ear infections, and encephalitis, which can lead to brain damage.
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