WHO warns against measles being an imminent global threat

Measles is one of the most contagious human viruses and it is almost entirely preventable through vaccination

According to the World Health Organization, measles is one of the biggest threats globally. Currently, there is an imminent threat of measles spreading to different areas around the world, as the Covid-19 pandemic led to a steady decline in vaccination coverage and weakened surveillance of the disease. Nearly 40 million children missed vaccine doses last year for measles and also according to the UN 25 million children have missed out on routine immunizations against these diseases including diphtheria as coronavirus wreaked havoc in the routine health services. Measles is one of the most contagious human viruses and it is almost entirely preventable through vaccination. To prevent community outbreaks, there is a need for 95% vaccination coverage .In 2021, official records show that there are nine million measles infections and around 1,28,000 deaths worldwide.

Measles is a viral infection which can prove to be dangerous for babies and young children. Symptoms include red, watery eyes, runny nose, cough, high fever etc. Often those infected can be seen with tiny white spots inside the mouth with two or three days after the symptoms begin. These are known as Koplik spots.