The European continent is currently grappling with a concerning resurgence of measles cases, with community spread being a significant contributing factor. According to the latest report from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), between January and December 2025, a total of 7,655 measles cases were reported across 30 European countries. This figure, while a significant decrease from the over 35,000 cases reported in 2024, is still alarmingly high and nearly double the number of cases reported in 2023. The report also highlights that eight individuals tragically lost their lives due to measles complications during this period, with four deaths in France, three in Romania, and one in the Netherlands.
Measles, a highly contagious respiratory infection, is easily transmitted through the air. The ECDC emphasizes that only a substantial portion of the population being immune can prevent its spread. To effectively control and prevent measles outbreaks, at least 95% of the eligible population should be vaccinated with two doses of the measles-containing vaccine, following national recommendations. However, the report reveals a concerning trend: 8 out of 10 individuals who contracted measles in 2025 were unvaccinated. This highlights the critical importance of vaccination in preventing the disease's spread and protecting those who are vulnerable, including young children and individuals with medical conditions that prevent vaccination.
'Despite the significant drop in cases over the past year, the numbers demonstrate that measles cases remain unacceptably high. Europe should be at the forefront of measles elimination efforts, leveraging our highly effective and safe vaccine, along with our knowledge, resources, and robust surveillance tools,' said Sabrina Bacci, Head of the ECDC programme on vaccine-preventable diseases and immunisation. 'Measles is a serious and highly contagious disease. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also safeguards those who cannot be vaccinated, reducing the spread of infections. Eliminating measles is within our grasp if we work together.'
The data for 2025 underscores the vulnerability of unvaccinated or partially vaccinated infants. Children under five years old accounted for 40% of the reported measles infections between January and December 2025. However, measles affects individuals of all ages, with the vast majority of adults and adolescents with known vaccination status having not received any doses of the measles-containing vaccine. This emphasizes the need for adults and adolescents to check their vaccination status and consider booster doses to protect themselves and others.
According to the available data, most people diagnosed with measles in 2025 contracted the disease locally through community transmission within their respective countries. This highlights the importance of community-wide vaccination efforts to prevent the spread of the disease.
'To prevent measles outbreaks and protect those most vulnerable to the disease, it is crucial that at least 95% of the eligible population is vaccinated with two doses of the measles-containing vaccine, following national recommendations,' the ECDC advised. Given the seasonal nature of measles infections, with peaks during late winter and early spring, the ECDC encourages everyone to check their vaccination status and ensure they are fully protected.
As the MMR vaccine takes at least two weeks to become effective, it is advisable to check vaccination status well in advance of any travel plans, especially if measles is circulating at the destination. For adults and parents or caregivers, the ECDC recommends the following steps:
- Check vaccination status: Ensure that you and your children are up to date on the MMR vaccination schedule, whether you are staying at home or planning to travel.
- Recognize typical measles symptoms: High fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a characteristic red rash starting at the hairline and spreading to the body are common symptoms. Measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.
- Seek advice if uncertain: Consult a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your vaccination history or need guidance on vaccinating younger children.
As data continues to be consolidated and submitted to the ECDC for the past year, additional measles cases from 2025 may be reported in the coming months. For more information and resources, visit the European Vaccination Information Portal - Measles factsheet, explore tools and methods for promoting vaccination acceptance, and refer to the Threat assessment brief 2024: Measles on the rise in the EU/EEA - Considerations for public health response.
