The number of measles cases increased by 20% worldwide in 2023, according to a study by the WHO and the CDC.
More than 107,000 dead
A study on the measles was carried out by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The results, released on Thursday (November 14), showed that the number of cases jumped 20% worldwide last year.
In 2023, some 10.3 million cases were recorded and 107,500 people died, including children under 5, reports TV5 World. “Insufficient vaccination coverage globally is behind this increase“, underlined the authors of this investigation.
Only 74% of children received the second dose of the vaccine
According to this study, significant epidemics of measles were recorded in 57 countries in 2023, compared to 36 a year earlier.
To avoid epidemics, coverage of at least 95% with two doses of the vaccine against measles and rubella is necessary. However, 83% of children worldwide have received their first dose as part of routine campaigns, and only 74% have had their second dose.
“The measles vaccine has saved more lives than any other remedy in the past 50 years“, recalled the Director General of the WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Investing in vaccination
Faced with this surge in cases, the two organizations fear that the objective of eradicating the measles by 2030 is “threat“.
Quoted in a press release, the head of the WHO insisted that investing in vaccination is essential to save lives and protect the most vulnerable populations, regardless of their place of residence.
Thus, the WHO and the CDC have called for increased efforts to ensure that all children receive both doses of vaccine, particularly in Africa and the eastern Mediterranean basin, as well as in conflict zones.
> Also read: Measles epidemic in Madagascar: 61 cases recorded since January
Health
