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Euronews
a day ago
- General
- Euronews
Where in Europe are cases of measles on the rise?
One of the world's most contagious diseases is spreading in Europe. Measles has been on the rise for months. Last year was the worst for measles in Europe and Central Asia since 1997, with more than 120,000 cases reported across the region. Health authorities have warned that cases are likely to rise in the coming months. So far in 2025, about 5,500 measles cases have been reported across the European Union, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Over the past year, many cases have been among unvaccinated children under the age of five, the agency says. Measles is usually a mild or moderately severe illness, but in some cases it can lead to deadly complications. It's extremely contagious, but vaccination is effective at keeping people from getting sick. Here's where cases are highest in 2025, according to ECDC data through the end of April. The vast majority of the EU's measles cases are in Romania, which has reported 3,605 infections as of late April. Three people have died. The country's years-long outbreak has been driven by anti-vaccine sentiment, conflicting health guidance, and a medical system struggling to keep up. In 2023, just 62 per cent of the population was fully vaccinated against measles, far below the 95 per cent threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. There have been 526 measles cases so far this year in France, spurred in part by a "notable increase" in the number of measles cases brought into the country this year, the ECDC said. At least 41 infections have been linked to someone who brought the virus in from Morocco, compared to 26 cases in 2024. In 2023, 93 per cent of people in France were fully vaccinated. But if there are pockets of unvaccinated people in a community, measles can easily take hold. The Netherlands reported 371 measles infections in the first four months of 2025. More than two dozen cases were among people who contracted measles in Morocco or Romania and then came into the Netherlands. Dutch health authorities said there are "clusters" of measles infections, for example, at primary schools or childcare facilities, with most cases among children under the age of 10. But they stressed there is no national measles outbreak. At 81 per cent, the Netherlands has one of the lowest measles vaccination rates in the EU. Only Romania and Cyprus (80 per cent) had lower coverage levels. In Italy, 268 measles infections have been recorded so far in 2025. Overall, in the year ending in late January, it's had more cases than anywhere in the EU except Romania. The country's measles vaccination rate was 85 per cent in 2023, too low to stave off outbreaks. Spain is experiencing outbreaks in several parts of the country, resulting in 251 measles infections this year. Several cases were also imported from outside of Spain, the ECDC said. Notably, 92 per cent of people in Spain were fully vaccinated against measles in 2023, landing the country near herd immunity. In May, the Spanish Ministry of Health encouraged people to check their vaccination status amid the uptick in measles cases both worldwide and within Spain. "The resumption of mobility after the pandemic has increased the risk of imported cases," the ministry said. Health officials in the United States have changed their advice to international travellers about measles, saying people should be vaccinated against the virus no matter where they're going. US residents are recommended to get measles-mumps-rubella shots, anyway. But the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) previously emphasised the importance of vaccination for travellers going to countries with outbreaks. Last week, the CDC updated its guidance to call for vaccinations for travellers going to all other countries. Ashley Darcy-Mahoney, a researcher at George Washington University's nursing school in the US, called the update significant. A Colorado outbreak last month stemmed from an international flight that landed in Denver, she noted. The CDC travel notice change reflects a recognition that people are not just being exposed to measles in countries where it's spreading, but also in airplanes and during travel, she added. "We're seeing a shift from localised outbreaks to transmission in transit," and the CDC seems to be responding to that, Darcy-Mahoney said. In line with recommendations in the European Union, the CDC's travel notice advises two doses for all Americans ages 1 and older, and an early dose for travelling infants ages 6 months to 11 months. Meanwhile, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) recommends that travellers ensure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations before going abroad. So far this year, the US has seen more than 1,000 measles cases, and the EU has reported more than 5,500 cases.
Malay Mail
24-05-2025
- Health
- Malay Mail
New more transmissible Covid-19 variant detected in France as cases rise in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan
ISTANBUL, May 24 — France has detected four cases of the new COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1 for the first time, Anadolu Ajansi reported. Four cases of the new COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1 were identified for the first time in France, the broadcaster BFMTV learned from the National Reference Centre in Lyon on Friday. 'There are a number of countries that have reported it. We've found a few cases in France-not many-four have been identified, both in hospitals and in the community,' virologist Bruno Lina said. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) also told BFMTV that as of April, a few NB.1.8.1 cases had been detected across Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain and Sweden. The NB.1.8.1 variant, now dominant in China and spreading in parts of Asia, has caused a rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalisations in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Although it is not believed to cause more severe illness, officials are advising mask use in crowded places and increasing vaccine and treatment supplies. Early studies suggest the variant is more transmissible due to stronger binding to human cells, but it does not significantly evade immunity compared to other strains. — Bernama/Anadolu
Medscape
19-05-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Azithromycin Resistance Rises in European Gonorrhoea Cases
The 2022 antimicrobial resistance (AMR) data for Neisseria gonorrhoeae from the European Gonococcal Antimicrobial Surveillance Programme (Euro-GASP) indicated a substantial rise in resistance to azithromycin and ciprofloxacin; however, resistance levels for ceftriaxone and cefixime remained low. METHODOLOGY: Researchers conducted a retrospective study to examine AMR data from the 2022 Euro-GASP and compared it with the most recently published data from 2016 to 2019 to identify changes in AMR over time. Overall, 3008 N gonorrhoeae isolates from 23 European countries were analysed for their susceptibility to antimicrobials — ceftriaxone, cefixime, azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin. isolates from 23 European countries were analysed for their susceptibility to antimicrobials — ceftriaxone, cefixime, azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin. Tests for antimicrobial susceptibility were performed using minimal inhibitory concentration gradient strip tests as per the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing. TAKEAWAY: Gonorrhoea cases among women increased significantly in 2022, rising to 19.2% from 15.8% in 2019 ( P = .0004) and 15.3% in 2016 ( P = .0002); however, cases decreased among men. = .0004) and 15.3% in 2016 ( = .0002); however, cases decreased among men. A significant increase in azithromycin resistance (24.9% vs 9%; P = .0002) and ciprofloxacin resistance (65.8% vs 57.4%; P = .0002) was observed in 2022 vs 2019. = .0002) and ciprofloxacin resistance (65.8% vs 57.4%; = .0002) was observed in 2022 vs 2019. The risk for azithromycin resistance increased by nearly threefold in men who have sex with men (odds ratio, 2.85; P = .0040). = .0040). Cefixime resistance declined from 0.8% in 2019 to 0.3% in 2022 ( P = .014), with higher cases observed among women. Ceftriaxone resistance remained low at 0.03% in 2022, similar to that seen in previous years. IN PRACTICE: "The only long-term solution for effective management and control of gonorrhoea is likely a gonococcal vaccine," the authors wrote. SOURCE: This study was led by Susanne Jacobsson, WHO Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and Other STIs, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden. It was published online on May 10, 2025, in The Lancet Regional Health - Europe . LIMITATIONS: This study faced issues with insufficient coverage and incomplete reporting of epidemiologic and clinical variables, with a predominance of urogenital specimens and limited samples from anorectal and oropharyngeal sites. DISCLOSURES: This study was supported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). The ECDC had a Framework Service Contract with Örebro University Hospital to coordinate the Euro-GASP. The UK Health Security Agency was subcontracted for this study. The authors reported having no conflicts of interest.
Scottish Sun
08-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 5 popular holiday hotspots riddled with ‘disability-causing disease' this summer – the signs every parent must know
BUG BEAR The 5 popular holiday hotspots riddled with 'disability-causing disease' this summer – the signs every parent must know ONE of the world's most contagious diseases is surging across Europe – and it's striking some of the UK's favorite summer holiday hotspots. Cases of measles cases rose tenfold, hitting 35,212 in 2024, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Advertisement This is the highest number of cases recorded in the EU region since 1997, with health experts warning that more are likely in the coming months. For many, the virus – often linked to the Victorian era when it was widespread – may feel like a common cold. But for others, especially in children under five, it can lead to serious complications. In some cases, the virus spreads to other parts of the body, like the lungs or brain, sometimes resulting in lifelong disabilities or even death. Advertisement Measles is also incredibly contagious and spreads rapidly through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. One person with measles can spread the infection to 12 to 18 others. To put that into perspective, the R0 (basic reproduction number) for flu is 1 to 4, and for Covid-19, it's 2 to 5. Vaccination, however, is very effective at stopping the virus. Advertisement One dose of the MMR jab, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella, reduces the risk of measles by about 95 per cent. Two doses, also called a booster, reduce it even further, by around 99 per cent. Dr Philippa Kaye urges parents to get their children vaccinated as measles infections surge This week, UK health officials announced that the age for the second MMR jab has been brought forward from three years old to just 18 months. The first dose is still given when children are one year old. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which made the decision, said it hoped the move would "improve uptake and provide earlier protection." Advertisement Although the MMR vaccine is typically given to young children, it is free to everyone on the NHS and is available from GP surgeries. To stop outbreaks, 95 per cent of the population must be vaccinated – a concept known as herd immunity. Over the past 20 years, vaccination rates in the UK and EU have been steadily falling, with a big dip during the pandemic when access to healthcare was limited. 1 Advertisement Which countries have been affected? So far in 2025, around 4,500 measles cases have been reported across the European Union, according to ECDC's latest measles and rubella report, most of which most are unvaccinated kids under four. But which countries, which also happen to be popular with UK tourists, have been worst impacted? 1. Romania Romania is bearing the brunt, with 3,203 cases by late March, and four deaths – the only EU country with measles-related fatalities this year. Advertisement The outbreak has been driven by anti-vaccine movements, mixed health advice, and an overstretched medical system, according to euronews. Only 62 per cent of Romanians were fully vaccinated in 2023, far below the rate needed to prevent outbreaks. 2. France In France, 345 measles cases have been reported, partly thanks to a increase in cases brought into the country from abroad year, says Public Health France (SpF). Advertisement In March, health chiefs warned the country was likely to see more cases in the "coming weeks", French news website, The Connexion, reports. In 2023, 93 per cent of people in France were fully vaccinated – just below the level needed to keep the virus in check. 3. Italy Italy's seen 227 cases so far – second only to Romania – with 85 per cent of its population vaccinated in 2023. Advertisement The country's measles jab rate was 85 per cent in 2023, not high enough to keep outbreaks at bay. Last month, the Italian Pediatric Society launched a campaign to fight against the spread of fake vaccine info and boost jab rates. 4. Netherlands The Netherlands logged 204 measles cases in the first three months of 2025 – already more than the total for all of 2024. Advertisement Over two dozen of those were people who caught measles in Morocco or Romania before heading to the Netherlands. With just 81 per cent coverage, the Netherlands has one of the lowest measles vaccination rates in the EU – only Romania and Cyprus, both at 80 per cent, rank lower. The majority of cases were in children under four, which makes sense, as the public health body has previously reported a 'sharp rise' in outbreaks at primary schools, according to DutchNews. However, officials were quick to point out there's no national outbreak — at least not yet. Advertisement 5. Spain Spain, meanwhile, is battling several outbreaks, with 202 reported cases, mostly from outside the country. But with 92 per cent vaccination coverage, Spain was close to herd immunity - where those who are protected help shield those who aren't. Last month, a major hospital on Spain's Costa del Sol in Malaga declared a measles outbreak, according to The Spanish Eye. Advertisement
The Sun
08-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The 5 popular holiday hotspots riddled with ‘disability-causing disease' this summer – the signs every parent must know
ONE of the world's most contagious diseases is surging across Europe – and it's striking some of the UK's favorite summer holiday hotspots. Cases of measles cases rose tenfold, hitting 35,212 in 2024, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). This is the highest number of cases recorded in the EU region since 1997, with health experts warning that more are likely in the coming months. For many, the virus – often linked to the Victorian era when it was widespread – may feel like a common cold. But for others, especially in children under five, it can lead to serious complications. In some cases, the virus spreads to other parts of the body, like the lungs or brain, sometimes resulting in lifelong disabilities or even death. Measles is also incredibly contagious and spreads rapidly through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. One person with measles can spread the infection to 12 to 18 others. To put that into perspective, the R0 (basic reproduction number) for flu is 1 to 4, and for Covid-19, it's 2 to 5. Vaccination, however, is very effective at stopping the virus. One dose of the MMR jab, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella, reduces the risk of measles by about 95 per cent. Two doses, also called a booster, reduce it even further, by around 99 per cent. Dr Philippa Kaye urges parents to get their children vaccinated as measles infections surge This week, UK health officials announced that the age for the second MMR jab has been brought forward from three years old to just 18 months. The first dose is still given when children are one year old. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which made the decision, said it hoped the move would "improve uptake and provide earlier protection." Although the MMR vaccine is typically given to young children, it is free to everyone on the NHS and is available from GP surgeries. To stop outbreaks, 95 per cent of the population must be vaccinated – a concept known as herd immunity. Over the past 20 years, vaccination rates in the UK and EU have been steadily falling, with a big dip during the pandemic when access to healthcare was limited. 1 Which countries have been affected? So far in 2025, around 4,500 measles cases have been reported across the European Union, according to ECDC's latest measles and rubella report, most of which most are unvaccinated kids under four. But which countries, which also happen to be popular with UK tourists, have been worst impacted? 1. Romania Romania is bearing the brunt, with 3,203 cases by late March, and four deaths – the only EU country with measles-related fatalities this year. The outbreak has been driven by anti-vaccine movements, mixed health advice, and an overstretched medical system, according to euronews. Only 62 per cent of Romanians were fully vaccinated in 2023, far below the rate needed to prevent outbreaks. 2. France In France, 345 measles cases have been reported, partly thanks to a increase in cases brought into the country from abroad year, says Public Health France (SpF). In March, health chiefs warned the country was likely to see more cases in the "coming weeks", French news website, The Connexion, reports. In 2023, 93 per cent of people in France were fully vaccinated – just below the level needed to keep the virus in check. 3. Italy Italy's seen 227 cases so far – second only to Romania – with 85 per cent of its population vaccinated in 2023. The country's measles jab rate was 85 per cent in 2023, not high enough to keep outbreaks at bay. Last month, the Italian Pediatric Society launched a campaign to fight against the spread of fake vaccine info and boost jab rates. 4. Netherlands The Netherlands logged 204 measles cases in the first three months of 2025 – already more than the total for all of 2024. Over two dozen of those were people who caught measles in Morocco or Romania before heading to the Netherlands. With just 81 per cent coverage, the Netherlands has one of the lowest measles vaccination rates in the EU – only Romania and Cyprus, both at 80 per cent, rank lower. The majority of cases were in children under four, which makes sense, as the public health body has previously reported a 'sharp rise' in outbreaks at primary schools, according to DutchNew s. However, officials were quick to point out there's no national outbreak — at least not yet. 5. Spain Spain, meanwhile, is battling several outbreaks, with 202 reported cases, mostly from outside the country. But with 92 per cent vaccination coverage, Spain was close to herd immunity - where those who are protected help shield those who aren't. Last month, a major hospital on Spain's Costa del Sol in Malaga declared a measles outbreak, according to The Spanish Eye. The 9 signs of measles Most parents will know to recognise measles from the rash that appears on their child's head or neck before spreading to the rest of the body. But this telltale sign usually surfaces a few days after kids fall ill - and there are nine other symptoms mums and dads should keep their eyes peeled for, according to NHS Inform. Measles symptoms typically start appearing about 10 days after infection. They can include: Cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a cough Sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light Watery eyes Swollen eyes A high temperature that may reach around 40C Small greyish-white spots in cheeks or back of the lips Aches and pains Loss of appetite Tiredness, irritability and a general lack of energy The measles rash usually develops around two to four days after the cold-like symptoms. The telltale rash: Usually first appears on the head or neck - typically on the face and behind the ears - before spreading outwards to the rest of the body Is made up of small red-brown, flat or slightly raised spots that may join together into larger blotchy patches Looks brown or red on white skin but can be harder to see on black or brown skin Is not usually itchy but can be slightly itchy for some people If you think you or your child has measles, you should phone your GP immediately. It's also important to do so if your child has been in close contact with someone who has measles and has not been fully vaccinated or hasn't had the infection before. Do this even if they don't have any symptoms.
