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In a concerning turn of events, the latest data released by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has uncovered a worrying uptick in vaccine-preventable diseases across Europe, notably measles and pertussis. These revelations come amidst the ongoing European Immunization Week, spanning from April 21st to April 27th, underlining the critical necessity for heightened vaccination campaigns to safeguard public health.
Measles Resurgence
Following a period of subdued activity between 2020 and 2022, measles cases have begun surging once again across several EU member states since 2023. Between March 2023 and February 2024, over 5770 measles cases were reported, accompanied by at least five fatalities. Of particular concern is the vulnerability of infants under the age of one, who are unable to receive vaccinations themselves and rely heavily on community immunity for protection against this highly transmissible disease. To halt transmission, it is imperative that at least 95% of the population receives two doses of the measles-containing vaccine.
Pertussis Outbreak
In parallel with the measles resurgence, a surge in pertussis cases was observed in mid-2023 across various EU/EEA countries. Preliminary data indicates a more than tenfold increase compared to 2022 and 2021. Newborns and infants, especially vulnerable due to incomplete vaccination, face elevated risks of severe illness and mortality. Timely administration of all recommended pertussis-containing vaccines, including vaccination during pregnancy, is crucial to shield this demographic from the disease’s adverse effects.
Insights into Other Vaccine-Preventable Diseases
While measles and pertussis have garnered significant attention, other vaccine-preventable diseases have also exhibited concerning trends:
Mumps: Despite being considered minor, an uptick in mumps cases has been noted, with 27 EU/EEA countries collectively reporting 2593 cases in 2022.
Diphtheria: Although rare, 2022 saw a worrying rise in diphtheria cases, predominantly cutaneous, with more than 60% of cases occurring in countries different from where they were initially notified.
Invasive Meningococcal Disease: Across all EU/EEA countries, a surge in invasive meningococcal disease was recorded in 2022, resulting in 1149 confirmed cases and 110 deaths, a stark increase from 2021.
Call to Action
As outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases persist, concerted efforts are imperative to identify and address immunity gaps within the population. Equitable access to vaccinations, particularly among vulnerable groups such as refugees and migrants, must be ensured. The ECDC reaffirmed its commitment to bolster national vaccination programs, uphold vaccine quality, safety, and efficacy, and strive for universal and equitable access for all.
Director of the ECDC, Andrea Ammon, emphasized the significance of the European Immunization Week in reflecting on the monumental impact vaccines have had on public health and well-being. Under the theme “Protecting Generations,” EIW 2024 commemorates 50 years of the Essential Programme on Immunization and underscores the enduring importance of high vaccination uptake, disease surveillance, and prompt response actions to combat vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccines have safeguarded generations, and it is imperative to ensure that this legacy endures.
