Measles cases across Europe and Central Asia declined significantly in 2025 compared to 2024, according to preliminary data reported by 53 countries in the WHO European Region, but the risk of outbreaks remains warn UNICEF and WHO.

Countries in Europe and Central Asia reported 33,998 measles cases in 2025 – a nearly 75 per cent drop compared to 127,412 in 2024. The overall decreasing trend in cases reflects both outbreak response measures and the gradual decline in the number of people susceptible to measles infection, as the virus made its way through under-vaccinated communities.

Many cases could have been prevented with higher routine vaccination coverage at community level and more timely response to outbreaks.

“While cases have reduced, the conditions that led to the resurgence of this deadly disease in recent years remain and must be addressed. Until all children are reached with vaccination, and hesitancy fuelled by the spread of misinformation is addressed, children will remain at risk of death or serious illness from measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases,” said UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Regina De Dominicis.

The number of cases in 2025 still exceeded what has been reported for most years since 2000, and some countries reported more cases in 2025 than in 2024. Measles cases continue to be detected in 2026 in the region.