Global measles infections rose to 10.3 million in 2023, a 20% increase from the previous year, according to a joint report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The rise is linked to low vaccination rates, with more than 22 million children missing their first dose of the measles vaccine.
Only 83% of children globally received the first dose, and just 74% completed the second dose, far below the 95% coverage needed to prevent outbreaks.
Large outbreaks affected 57 countries, with Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Eastern Mediterranean regions hit hardest.
These regions face challenges such as weak healthcare systems and limited access to vaccines. Africa alone accounted for nearly half of all disruptive outbreaks.
The disease claimed over 107,500 lives in 2023, mostly among children under five.
Though this reflects an 8% decrease in deaths due to better nutrition and healthcare access in some regions, measles remains a major threat.
Survivors often face lifelong complications like blindness and brain damage.
Experts warned that failure to close vaccination gaps threatens global health goals.
They stressed the need for stronger immunization programs, improved disease tracking, and high-coverage campaigns, especially in vulnerable regions.
Achieving widespread vaccination is key to preventing further outbreaks and saving lives.
