Vaccine-Preventable Diseases Surge: Europe Sounds the Alarm

The latest data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reveal a concerning uptick in vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles and pertussis across Europe, following decreased levels throughout the COVID-19 pandemic period. The findings were released as part of the 2024 European Immunization Week, taking place April 21-27, and emphasize a critical need for heightened vaccination campaigns to protect public health.

Surge in Measles and Pertussis Cases

After a period of low activity between 2020 and 2022, the number of measles cases began increasing in 2023, persisting across several EU member states. From March 2023 to February 2024, more than 5770 measles cases were reported, with at least five deaths. 

Infants younger than 1 year face the highest risk owing to their inability to receive vaccinations, relying on immunity in the community for protection. Measles, known for its high transmissibility, necessitates that at least 95% of a population receive two doses of measles-containing vaccine to halt transmission.

A surge in pertussis cases also emerged in mid-2023 across various EU/EEA countries, with preliminary data indicating a more than 10-fold increase compared with 2022 and 2021. Newborns and infants, who are vulnerable owing to incomplete vaccination, face heightened risks for severe illness and mortality. Timely administration of all recommended pertussis-containing vaccines is imperative to safeguard this group, with vaccination during pregnancy offering additional protection for young infants.

"The measles and pertussis outbreaks are just two examples [showing] that, despite the dramatic decrease in cases and mortality over the past decades, different vaccine-preventable diseases continue to circulate and still inflict suffering in those unprotected or vulnerable," cautioned Andrea Ammon, director of the ECDC, during a press conference.

Source: MEDspace