The World Health Organization (WHO) has reiterated the urgent need for measles vaccination, warning that the disease spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
In a post on its official X account, WHO emphasised that while measles can affect anyone, children remain the most vulnerable. The agency stressed that receiving two doses of the measles vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infections and protect communities.
“Measles spreads easily when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles can affect anyone, but is most common in children,” WHO stated, directing the public to vaccination resources.
The warning comes as measles outbreaks continue to rise in several regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where immunisation gaps have left millions of children at risk.
Countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Somalia have reported significant outbreaks in recent years, with thousands of cases and deaths recorded.
According to WHO and UNICEF, disruptions in routine immunisation programs—exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, conflict, and healthcare system challenges—have led to a resurgence of measles in many African nations.
In 2023, WHO reported that Africa accounted for nearly 50% of global measles deaths, highlighting the urgent need for stronger vaccination efforts.
WHO and health experts have urged governments in sub-Saharan Africa to prioritise measles immunisation campaigns, strengthen healthcare infrastructure, and address misinformation about vaccines to prevent further outbreaks.