These data are cited in a report published Thursday in Geneva by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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“The incidence of measles has exploded globally in 2019. The largest number of cases in 23 years has been reported, ”the authors of the report note.
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Last year, 869,770 measles cases and 207.5 thousand deaths were registered.
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Since 2016, the number of deaths has increased by 50%.
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WHO and CDC draw attention to the fact that from 2010 to 2016 the incidence decreased, reaching “historically low” rates in 2016. Experts attribute the subsequent growth to failures in measles vaccination programs for children. Getting measles under control requires at least 95% vaccination coverage.
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It is about taking two doses of the vaccine. According to experts, currently no more than 85% of children receive one dose of the vaccine and about 71% – two doses, which is below the target.
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In 2020, the number of reported measles cases decreased. However, WHO and CDC are concerned about vaccine disruptions that have occurred. due to pandemic coronavirus. As of November, experts have recorded delays in the timing of immunization of 94 million people in 26 countries.
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“This data sends a clear signal that we are failing to protect children from measles in all regions of the world,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adanom Ghebreyesus. He called on the world community to “work collectively” to meet the challenge of vaccinating “everyone, everywhere.”
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Measles is one of the most contagious viral diseases. It is considered a childhood illness, but adults are also prone to it.
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The infection is transmitted airborne by way. Measles is dangerous with complications such as otitis media, meningitis and encephalitis. It can be fatal.
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