India Ranks Second Globally in Measles Outbreaks

As per a recent report by WHO and CDC, published in November 2024, India recorded 65,150 measles cases in 2023, the second highest globally after the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The report shows a 20% global surge in measles cases, reaching 10.3 million infections, and an 8% increase in measles-related deaths, totaling 107,500.

Key Points

Measles Outbreak: India is among 57 countries with significant outbreaks, with measles presenting symptoms like fever and rash and sometimes leading to severe complications, including brain swelling and death.
Immunisation Challenges: Global measles immunisation levels have stagnated post-COVID-19, with first-dose vaccine coverage (MCV1) at 83% in 2023, unchanged from 2022 but down from pre-pandemic levels. WHO's Southeast Asia region saw a slight dip in MCV1 coverage from 94% in 2022 to 91% in 2023.
Children Missing Vaccinations: Worldwide, 22.2 million children missed their first measles vaccine dose, with two Southeast Asian countries in the top ten for highest missed doses.
India's Vaccination Rates: While India-specific 2023 data is unavailable, the government reports MCV1 coverage reaching 93%, an increase from 2022's numbers.