Health officials worldwide are sounding the alarm as measles cases continue to climb across multiple regions, leading to renewed travel warnings, especially ahead of the busy summer holiday season.
Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, is known for its fever, cough, and telltale skin rash. It can lead to severe complications, particularly in babies, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
In 2024, Europe recorded its highest number of measles cases in 25 years, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF. That trend has continued in 2025, with outbreaks reported in France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Romania, and the Netherlands. In the UK, the Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has seen a continued rise in infections, with London accounting for nearly half of the cases—most of which involve unvaccinated children under 10.
With summer travel underway, the UKHSA warns international travel may fuel further spread within the country.
The WHO has also documented major outbreaks globally, including in the US, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Nigeria. In the US alone, over 1,100 cases have been confirmed in more than 30 states as of June 5, with Texas the most affected. The WHO classifies the regional risk across the Americas as “high,” noting that over 2,300 cases and three measles-related deaths were reported in April 2025—more than 10 times the figure from the same month last year.
Travelers are being urged to confirm their vaccination status before heading abroad. In Belgium, for example, the Brussels health authority Vivalis confirmed rising infections since May, stating: “Consultations are provided by doctors and paediatricians specialised in tropical and travel medicine. The aim of this service is to inform travellers of the risks inherent in their planned trips, and to provide them with the most appropriate advice, vaccinations and prophylaxis.”
Popular destinations like Morocco and Romania are currently experiencing active outbreaks. Health experts worry that travelers may unknowingly bring the virus back home, contributing to local spread.
How Measles Spreads and Who’s at Risk
Measles is one of the most infectious viruses known. Like COVID-19, it spreads through respiratory droplets—but it’s far more contagious. A single infected person can infect 12 to 18 unvaccinated people, compared to COVID’s average of 1 to 1.5.
Children under 10 are the most vulnerable group. In Belgium, children typically receive a measles vaccine at age one, followed by a booster between 7 and 9 years. While the vaccines are not mandatory, doctors stress their “vital importance.” Many adults aged 30–45 are also at risk due to incomplete childhood immunization.
Vaccine Facts and Protection
The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine—and the MMRV version for younger children—are safe and effective, with over five decades of use. One dose provides 93% protection; two doses offer 97%. Those fully vaccinated are considered to have lifelong immunity.
Vaccination remains the most reliable protection, yet rates have declined in some areas due to misinformation spread during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In early 2025, the US reported its first measles deaths in nearly a decade—both unvaccinated children.
Am I Immune?
You’re considered immune if you have documentation showing:
- Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine (for school-aged children and high-risk adults such as healthcare workers and travelers)
- One dose (for preschool-aged children and low-risk adults)
- Lab-confirmed immunity or past measles infection
- Or you were born before 1957
If you’re unsure, check your records or speak to your healthcare provider. Blood tests can confirm immunity, and vaccines are widely available at primary care clinics and travel health centers.
If you don’t get your child vaccinated against #measles, it can put them at a high risk of this serious infection, which can lead to severe complications or even death.
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) June 11, 2025
Make sure your child’s measles vaccination is up to date. pic.twitter.com/gVD6atPdYB