Community spread drives ongoing measles transmission in Europe

The latest monthly report from ECDC for December 2025 shows that between January and December 2025, 7 655 measles cases were reported by 30 countries. Eight of these individuals died following measles infection: four in France, three in Romania, and one in the Netherlands. While the total number of infections in 2025 represents a significant decrease compared with the more than 35 000 cases in 2024, it is almost double the cases reported in 2023. 

As measles is highly infectious and easily spreads through the air, only sufficient immunity among large parts of the population can prevent transmission from person to person. To prevent measles outbreaks and protect those particularly vulnerable to measles – such as children too young to be vaccinated and those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons – at least 95% of the eligible population should be vaccinated with two doses of the measles-containing vaccine, following national recommendations. However, similar to 2024, 8 in 10 people who fell ill with measles during 2025 had not been vaccinated. 

‘These numbers demonstrate that measles cases remain concerningly high despite a significant drop over the last year. Europe should be leading the world in measles elimination. We have a highly effective and safe vaccine, as well as the knowledge, the resources, and some of the most robust surveillance tools to effectively control this preventable disease. Measles is a serious disease and a highly contagious one. Individual vaccination protects others who cannot be vaccinated, as it reduces the spread of infections. This makes vaccination not only an act of self-protection but also one of solidarity. Eliminating measles should be possible if we act together,’ says Sabrina Bacci, Head of the ECDC programme on vaccine-preventable diseases and immunisation.

Unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated infants remain particularly vulnerable to measles, as reflected in current data for 2025: children under five years old accounted for 40% (3 072) of the notified measles infections between January and December 2025. But measles affects all age groups: among adults and adolescents with known vaccination status, the vast majority had not received any doses of measles-containing vaccine. Adults and adolescents should therefore also check whether they are fully immunised or if they require a booster dose to protect themselves and others.

According to the currently available data, most people diagnosed with measles during 2025 acquired it locally through community transmission within the country reporting the infection.

Vaccination: the key to protection at home and abroad

To prevent measles outbreaks and protect those particularly vulnerable to measles, at least 95% of the eligible population should be vaccinated with two doses of measles-containing vaccine, following national recommendations.

As measles infections follow a seasonal pattern, with peaks during late winter and early spring, ECDC encourages everyone to check their measles vaccination status and ensure they are fully protected.

Given that the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine takes at least two weeks to become effective, it is advisable to check vaccination status well ahead of travel, as measles may be circulating at your destination.

Considerations for adults and parents or caregivers:

• Check your vaccination status: ensure that you and your children are up to date on the MMR vaccination schedule, whether you are staying at home or plan to travel.
• Know the typical measles symptoms:
  • high fever,
  • cough,
  • runny nose,
  • red, watery eyes and
  • a characteristic red rash that usually starts at the hairline and spreads down to the rest of the body.
  • Measles infection can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis and even death.
• Seek advice if unsure: if you are uncertain about your vaccination history or need guidance on vaccinating younger children, consult a healthcare professional. 

Additional measles cases from 2025 may be reported in the coming months, as data continues to be consolidated and submitted to ECDC for last year.