How Has the Measles Vaccine Saved Nearly 59 Million Lives?
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Synopsis
A new WHO report reveals that the measles vaccine has saved almost 59 million lives, with deaths dropping by 88% since 2000. However, alarming spikes in measles cases and under-vaccination highlight critical challenges ahead. This article delves into the statistics and the urgent need for enhanced immunization efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Measles vaccine has saved nearly 59 million lives.
- 88% reduction in measles deaths since 2000.
- Projected 11 million cases in 2024.
- Only 84% of children received the first dose in 2024.
- 96 countries have eliminated measles.
New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) The measles vaccine has successfully safeguarded nearly 59 million lives, with a remarkable 88% reduction in measles-related fatalities recorded from 2000 to 2024, as per a recent report released by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday.
This achievement is attributed to extensive global immunization efforts.
However, the report indicates a concerning rise in measles cases globally, projecting approximately 11 million infections in 2024, which is nearly 800,000 more than the levels observed before the pandemic in 2019.
Sadly, around 95,000 individuals, primarily children under the age of 5, succumbed to measles in 2024.
“Measles is the most contagious virus in the world, and this data reiterates how it exploits any vulnerabilities in our collective defenses against it,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO.
“Measles knows no borders; however, when every child in every community receives the vaccine, we can avert costly outbreaks, save lives, and potentially eliminate this disease from entire countries,” he continued.
According to WHO guidelines, a minimum of 95% coverage with two doses of the measles vaccine is essential to halt transmission and safeguard communities from outbreaks.
As of 2024, an estimated 84% of children have received their first dose of the measles vaccine, with only 76% receiving the second dose, according to estimates from WHO/UNICEF.
This marks a slight improvement from the previous year, with 2 million more children being immunized.
Interestingly, the report highlights a 40% decrease in cases and a 50% decrease in deaths in the African Region in 2024 compared to 2019.
Conversely, cases surged by 86% in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region, 47% in the European Region, and 42% in the South-East Asian Region.
Additionally, the report revealed significant measles outbreaks in 59 countries, nearly tripling the number reported in 2021, the highest level since the COVID-19 pandemic began, highlighting vulnerabilities in global immunization programs and health systems.
Alarmingly, over 30 million children remained under-vaccinated against measles in 2024.
The report also pointed out severe funding cuts affecting national immunization programs, which could increase immunity gaps and lead to further outbreaks in the upcoming year.
To date, 96 countries have successfully eliminated measles, but the goal for global measles elimination by 2030 appears increasingly distant.
Point of View
I believe that the staggering achievements in measles vaccination must not overshadow the alarming resurgence of cases. The WHO's findings underscore the critical need for sustained immunization efforts and robust funding to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children, across nations.
NationPress
28/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lives has the measles vaccine saved?
The measles vaccine has saved nearly 59 million lives since its introduction.
What has been the reduction in measles deaths since 2000?
There has been an 88% reduction in measles deaths from 2000 to 2024.
How many measles infections are expected in 2024?
An estimated 11 million measles infections are projected in 2024.
What percentage of children received the measles vaccine in 2024?
In 2024, approximately 84% of children received their first dose, and 76% received their second dose.
How many countries have eliminated measles?
As of now, 96 countries have successfully eliminated measles.
