Measles deaths soared worldwide last year, as vaccine rates stalled

A joint report by CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that worldwide measles deaths increased to their highest level in 23 years last year. The analysis found that the 2019 worldwide death tally from measles — 207,500 — was 50% higher than just 3 years earlier. No measles deaths were reported in the United States, but measles cases rose to a record yearly high of 1,282 across 31 states, the most since 1992, according to recent data. Public health experts warn that the rising numbers are the consequence of years of insufficient vaccination coverage. Natasha Crowcroft, MD, senior technical adviser for measles and rubella at the WHO, says: “We can’t carry on in the same way and expect a different result.” Reported cases of measles so far have been lower this year, but public health experts believe those numbers reflect a significant undercounting because of the COVID-19 pandemic’s disruptions to health care. Measles outbreaks have already occurred this year in at least one-half of the 26 countries that had to suspend vaccination campaigns because of the pandemic. WHO estimates that 94 million people are currently at risk for missing measles vaccines. Details of the international measles outbreaks were reported by the Measles and Rubella Initiative, an international consortium that includes CDC, WHO, American Red Cross, United Nations Foundation, and UNICEF. The group says vaccination efforts should continue, especially during the pandemic.