Families planning to travel this summer are being advised to take precautions amid a sharp rise in measles cases across Europe, the US, and other parts of the world.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air, causing symptoms such as fever, cough, and a distinctive rash. Babies, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to serious complications if infected.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, Europe recorded its highest number of measles infections in 25 years in 2024. Cases continue to rise in 2025, with outbreaks reported in France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Romania, and the Netherlands.
In the UK, the Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed a continued increase in measles cases, with most infections occurring in unvaccinated children aged 10 and under. London accounts for nearly half of all recent cases. With the summer holiday season approaching, the UKHSA warns that international travel could accelerate the spread of the virus within England.
Globally, the WHO has reported a broader resurgence of measles over the past year. In addition to Europe and the UK, significant outbreaks have occurred in the US, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Nigeria.
In the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed more than 1,100 measles cases across over 30 states as of 5 June, with Texas the most affected. Across the Americas, the WHO recorded over 2,300 measles cases and three deaths in April – more than 10 times the number reported during the same period last year. Most cases involved individuals aged one to 29 who were either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. The WHO currently classifies the regional risk as high.
