Spiking Measles Cases Across Europe: Which regions are experiencing renewed outbreaks of this highly infectious illness?
Measles Outbreaks Sweep Across Europe: A Look at the Current State of Affairs
Europe is grappling with a resurgence of one of the world's most contagious diseases—measles. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reports a staggering 5,500 cases across the EU as of 2025, with some countries experiencing significantly higher infection rates.
Measles, previously thought to be on the brink of eradication, is once again on the rise. Last year, Europe and Central Asia recorded more than 120,000 measles cases, the highest number since 1997[2]. Health officials warn that cases are likely to increase in the coming months.
Hotspots of Infection
The following countries have been hit hardest by the measles outbreak:
Romania: Ground Zero
Romania is currently at the epicenter of Europe's measles outbreak, reporting a staggering 3,605 cases as of late April[3]. Unfortunately, three people have lost their lives to the disease. The outbreak's prolonged duration in Romania is linked to several factors, including:
- Low Vaccination Rates: In 2023, only 62% of the population was fully vaccinated against measles, falling significantly short of the 95% vaccination rate required to prevent outbreaks[1].
- Anti-Vaccine Sentiment: Anti-vaccine sentiments and the spread of misinformation have contributed to a reluctance among some individuals to get vaccinated[1].
- Health System Challenges: Romania's healthcare system has struggled to respond effectively to the outbreak due to various factors[1].
France: On the Rise
France has reported 526 measles cases so far this year[3]. The increase is partly due to an increase in imported cases, with at least 41 infections linked to someone who brought the virus in from Morocco[3]. France's vaccination coverage stands at 93%, but pockets of unvaccinated individuals can still facilitate the spread of measles[3].
Netherlands: Clusters of Cases
The Netherlands reported 371 measles infections in the first four months of 2025[3]. There are clusters of infections in places like primary schools and childcare facilities, primarily affecting children under the age of 10[3]. Despite a below-par vaccination rate of 81%, the Dutch health authorities maintain that there is no national measles outbreak[3].
Italy: AClose Second to Romania
Italy has recorded 268 measles infections so far this year, falling just short of Romania's alarming case count[3]. The country's measles vaccination rate was 85% in 2023, which is inadequate to prevent outbreaks[3].
Spain: Outbreaks Escalating
Spain is experiencing outbreaks in several areas, resulting in 251 measles infections this year[3]. The Spanish Ministry of Health has encouraged people to verify their vaccination status in response to the rising case numbers both domestically and globally.
Stay Informed, Stay Protected
With increased mobility post-pandemic, there is an increased risk of imported cases of measles, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong vaccination programs and responding promptly to outbreaks[3]. Keep yourself and your loved ones protected by ensuring your vaccinations are up-to-date and staying informed about the current state of measles outbreaks worldwide.
Sources:
[1] Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Measles. Retrieved March 16, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html
[2] European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (2022). Annual epidemiological report for measles and rubella - European Region, 2021. Retrieved March 16, 2023, from https://publications.europa.eu/en/series/98-77-939-en/98-77-939-2022-ep-document
[3] European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (2023, April 24). Measles in Romania. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/measles/cases-country/romania
[4] European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (2023, April 19). Measles and rubella infections and outbreaks in the European Union and European Economic Area, 2023. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/measles-and-rubella/overview-measles-rubella-vaccination-coverage
[5] Paraskevas, E. (2023, April 25). Romania puts army on standby to battle measles. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/romania-puts-army-standby-battle-measles-amid-biggest-outbreak-2023-04-25/
- The rise of measles cases in Europe has significant implications for workers' wellness in the workplace-wellness industry.
- Medical conditions such as chronic diseases, cancer, and respiratory conditions may be exacerbated by the spread of measles.
- Climate change, an ongoing concern in environmental science, could potentially affect the spread of measles due to changes in temperature and humidity.
- Mental-health experts are monitoring the stress levels among parents of children affected by the measles outbreak.
- Mens-health issues may arise in countries with low vaccination rates, as men tend to have lower vaccination rates compared to women.
- Eye-health problems might develop in individuals with weakened immune systems due to measles.
- Hearing loss can occur in some cases of measles, affecting hearing health.
- Health-and-wellness companies are highlighting the importance of regular check-ups and vaccinations to combat the measles outbreak.
- Fitness-and-exercise regimens can boost the immune system, potentially mitigating the risks associated with measles.
- Sexual-health organizations are reminding the public that pregnancy can complicate the progression of measles and increase the risk of miscarriage.
- Antiviral therapies and treatments are crucial for managing measles infections in those with autoimmune disorders.
- Nutrition plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system and promoting overall health during a measles outbreak.
- Aging can weaken the immune system, making the elderly population more susceptible to measles.
- Womens-health practitioners are counseling pregnant women about the importance of vaccinations to protect themselves and their unborn children.
- The measles outbreak has brought the issue of parenting styles, particularly appropriate vaccination schedules, into sharp focus.
- Weight-management programs may need to adapt their offerings to address potential weight loss or gain that can occur in conjunction with measles.
- Cardiovascular-health professionals are aware of the risks of myocarditis, a heart inflammation, in some cases of measles infection.
- The industry is closely monitoring the financial implications for governments and healthcare systems dealing with the measles outbreak.
- Medicare programs may face increased pressure to cover the costs of measles-related medical expenses.
- CBD products may offer some relief for measles-related symptoms, but their efficacy remains a topic of debate in the scientific community.
- Neurological-disorders, such as encephalitis, can result from measles infections.
- Environmental-science researchers are analyzing the environmental factors that might contribute to the resurgence of measles.
- Financial institutions are encouraging investors to support initiatives aimed at improving global health and wellness, including vaccination programs.
- Skin-care brands are emphasizing the importance of proper hygiene practices to avoid contracting and spreading measles.
- Therapies-and-treatments for measles are being administered across Europe to combat the ongoing outbreak.
- The rise in measles cases has brought the importance of lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, and mental-health maintenance, to the forefront.
- Fashion-and-beauty companies are incorporating wellness trends, such as antibacterial fabrics and immune-boosting supplements, into their product lines.
- The measles outbreak has led to increased discussion about relationships, as individuals consider whether their partners have been vaccinated against the disease.
