Measles cases have surged in recent years, following a decade of suboptimal vaccination coverage. A significant increase in cases was observed in 2025 and early 2026, with over 22,000 confirmed cases and 39 deaths reported. Young children, particularly those under one year of age, are disproportionately affected, as are Indigenous populations and other underserved groups.
These groups also experience the highest mortality rates. Further details on the measles outbreak are available, including the number of countries and territories affected. The outbreak has already exceeded the number of cases reported in the previous year.
More information can be found in the measles preparedness and response matrix, which outlines key activities by pillar and epidemiological scenario.
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