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The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) have raised alarms over 21 significant outbreaks of measles occurring worldwide in recent months. In a recent press release, they reported that global measles cases have soared nearly 80% in 2022 compared to the previous year.
In January and February 2022, approximately 17,338 measles cases were documented globally, a stark rise from the 9,665 cases reported during the same period in 2021. Many of these outbreaks have been concentrated in Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean region. The ongoing conflicts and crises in countries like Ukraine, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Afghanistan have led to millions being displaced, exacerbating disruptions in routine immunization and COVID-19 vaccination services. These conditions, including inadequate clean water and sanitation, as well as overcrowding, have intensified the risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.
WHO and UNICEF attribute the rise in measles cases to pandemic-related interruptions and widening disparities in vaccine access. The diversion of resources away from routine immunizations has left many children unprotected. Given the highly contagious nature of measles, a decline in vaccination rates can lead to swift increases in cases. The agencies are also concerned that this current outbreak may signal potential surges of other diseases that do not spread as quickly.
“Measles is not just a dangerous and potentially fatal illness; it also highlights the gaps in global vaccination coverage that vulnerable children cannot afford,” stated Emily Carter, UNICEF Executive Director. “While it’s encouraging that communities are feeling secure enough to resume social activities, doing so in areas where children lack routine vaccinations creates an ideal environment for the spread of diseases like measles.”
Data from late 2020 indicated a decline in measles vaccination rates, raising fears of an impending outbreak. In July 2021, it was reported that 23 million children missed vital childhood vaccinations through standard health services in 2020—the highest number since 2009 and 3.7 million more than in 2019. “While countries are eager to access COVID-19 vaccines, we have regressed in other vaccinations, leaving children at risk of preventable diseases like measles, polio, or meningitis,” commented Dr. Mark Thompson, WHO director-general. “The potential for multiple disease outbreaks would be devastating for communities and health systems already grappling with COVID-19, making it crucial to invest in childhood vaccinations and ensure every child is covered.”
In the five countries with the highest measles cases over the past year—Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Ethiopia—first dose coverage was below 70% in 2020. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that MMR vaccinations among kindergarteners dropped to 93.6% during the 2020-2021 school year.
The CDC also noted a 15% decrease in states’ orders for the Vaccines for Children program in 2020 compared to pre-pandemic levels. In states where COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is prevalent, parents are also opting out of routine vaccinations. For instance, Tennessee recorded a 14% drop in routine vaccines administered to children under 2. If vaccination rates continue to lag, the likelihood of transmission of highly contagious and severe diseases will inevitably rise. It’s essential to keep children protected by staying up to date on their vaccinations.
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Summarizing:
In 2022, global measles cases have surged by nearly 80% compared to 2021, raising concerns from WHO and UNICEF about vaccine-preventable diseases, exacerbated by disruptions from the pandemic and conflicts. With millions displaced and access to vaccinations hampered, the risk of outbreaks becomes imminent. Vaccination rates have declined, and it is critical to ensure children remain protected against preventable illnesses.
Keyphrase: Global measles cases surge 2022
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