An alarming increase in measles-related deaths has been reported across the Americas in early 2024, signaling a resurgence of the highly contagious virus amid declining vaccination coverage and ongoing outbreaks in several countries.
According to the latest data from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), over 70,000 suspected and confirmed measles cases have been reported in the region since 2023, with more than 300 deaths—mostly among unvaccinated children under the age of five. This marks a sharp rise compared to previous years, reversing decades of progress toward measles elimination.
Countries including Venezuela, Brazil, Colombia, Haiti, and Ecuador have reported widespread transmission, with outbreaks fueled by gaps in immunization programs, misinformation about vaccines, and weakened public health infrastructure. In Venezuela, for example, a prolonged economic crisis has severely disrupted healthcare services, leading to vaccination rates falling below 60% in some areas—far below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO, warned: “The re-emergence of measles in the Americas is a public health emergency. These deaths are preventable. Measles is one of the most contagious viruses, but it is also one of the most preventable through safe and effective vaccination.”
The measles vaccine, usually administered as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) shot, has been proven to be over 97% effective with two doses. However, regional vaccination coverage has dropped significantly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, only 83% of children in the Americas received their first dose of the measles vaccine, the lowest level in over two decades.
Public health experts stress the urgent need for coordinated efforts to restore immunization programs, combat vaccine hesitancy, and strengthen disease surveillance. PAHO and WHO are supporting affected countries with vaccine supplies, technical assistance, and outbreak response strategies.
“Measles does not respect borders,” said Dr. Ruben Limardo, PAHO’s Epidemiology Advisor. “One unvaccinated child can spark an outbreak that spreads rapidly. We must act now to protect the most vulnerable and prevent further loss of life.”
PAHO is urging governments, healthcare providers, and communities to prioritize measles vaccination campaigns and ensure equitable access to immunization services. The organization also calls on parents to vaccinate their children on schedule and to consult trusted health sources for accurate information.
As global attention shifts from the pandemic, health authorities warn that complacency could lead to more preventable diseases making a comeback. The recent spike in measles deaths is a stark reminder that vaccine-preventable diseases remain a serious threat—especially when vaccination rates fall.
