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WHO appeals for vaccination against Measles: Over 50 thousand cases in 3 months in Europe

WHO appeals for vaccination against Measles: Over 50 thousand cases in 3 months

The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm about increasing numbers of people affected by measles. According to the latest reports, 56 634 measles cases and four deaths were officially reported in 45 of the 53 countries of the WHO European Region in the first three months of 2024.

"I call on all countries to take immediate action, even where overall vaccination coverage is high, to vaccinate vulnerable groups, cover immunity gaps and thus prevent the spread of the virus in any community," he said. Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe.

Children of the age of 1 receive the vaccine, which parents are afraid of because of conspiracy theories that this vaccine causes autism.

What is measles?

Measles is a viral infection of the respiratory system. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. Measles is spread by coughing and sneezing, close or direct contact with nasal or throat secretions, 4 days before and after the rash. The virus remains active and contagious in the air or on infected surfaces for up to 2 hours.

The virus causes high fever, fever, runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots on the mucous membrane lining the oral cavity. Redness on the face, body, hands and feet.