ECDC Reports Measles Surge, 35,000 Cases in 2024

Recent data and surveys highlight both widespread support for vaccines and persistent misinformation in the U.S. and Europe. In the U.S., a strong majority of Americans recognize the benefits and established safety of childhood vaccines, but significant portions still believe in scientifically disproven claims, such as vaccines causing autism or altering DNA, with political divisions evident in attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines. Meanwhile, Europe is experiencing a resurgence of measles and detections of vaccine-derived poliovirus, driven by declining immunization rates and immunity gaps, as underscored by new ECDC reports. Health authorities emphasize that at least 95% coverage with two doses of the MMR vaccine is necessary to prevent outbreaks, but most European countries have not met this target, resulting in thousands of measles cases and multiple deaths, including young children. These developments underscore the critical need for sustained vaccination efforts and public education to combat misinformation and maintain herd immunity. Global organizations like UNICEF and the WHO continue to advocate for inclusive, equitable immunization to safeguard public health achievements.