Measles in Europe: Update 2

The European Centre for Disease Prevention & Control (ECDC) reports continued transmission of measles in Europe. From 1 January 2024 to 16 August 2024, countries reporting cases are:

Austria: 490 cases

Belgium: 275 cases

Bulgaria: 24 cases

Croatia: 18 cases

Czech Republic: 30 cases

Denmark: 20 cases

France: 300 cases

Germany: 399 cases

Ireland: 82 cases (1 death)

Italy: 807 cases

Netherlands: 147 cases

Norway: 9 cases

Poland: 246 cases

Portugal: 34 cases

Romania: 19 785 cases (18 deaths)

Spain: 181 cases

Sweden: 23 cases

Measles is highly contagious and continuing transmission means there is also risk of spread to countries not currently reporting cases.

Advice for Travellers

Travel may increase an individual’s risk of exposure to measles virus, and facilitate the spread of disease to unvaccinated and susceptible populations. The travel consultation provides a valuable opportunity to ensure individuals are protected against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) viruses. Two doses of MMR vaccine, at least one month apart, are required to give adequate protection.

Consider vaccinating:

• all travellers who have not previously had two doses of MMR vaccine or prior measles infection
• travellers visiting friends and relatives (VFRs), and/or mixing closely with the local population
• younger children who have not yet been fully immunised

For children, first and second doses of MMR vaccine can be administered earlier than they would routinely be given within the UK Vaccination Schedule (2 doses of MMR vaccine around 12-13 months, and before starting school at around 3 years 4 months of age).

• MMR vaccine can be given from 6 months of age when early protection is required

See the TRAVAX Measles, Mumps and Rubella page for further information.