Archive · 28 Nov 2025
Measles Vaccine Saves 59 Million Lives
The measles vaccine has saved 59 million lives and reduced deaths by 88% since 2000, according to the World Health Organization.
However, measles cases are increasing worldwide, with 11 million infections in 2024.
Most deaths are in children under 5.
The vaccine coverage is not enough to stop the spread, with only 84% receiving the first dose and 76% the second.
Some regions like Africa have seen declines, while others like the Eastern Mediterranean and Europe have seen increases.
There are big outbreaks in 59 countries, and many children are still not protected.
The goal to eliminate measles by 2030 is far from being achieved.
Measles vaccine has saved 59 million lives and reduced deaths by 88% since 2000.
Measles cases surged to 11 million in 2024, with 95,000 deaths, mostly in children under 5.
Vaccine coverage is insufficient, with 84% receiving the first dose and 76% the second.
Africa saw a 40% decline in cases and 50% in deaths, while other regions like Eastern Mediterranean and Europe saw increases.
Large outbreaks occurred in 59 countries, nearly triple the number in 2021, exposing weaknesses in immunization programs.
- Who
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- What
- Measles vaccine impact and current outbreak situation
- When
- Report published in 2024, data from 2000-2024
- Where
- Global
- Why
- To highlight the success of measles vaccination and the current challenges in global immunization efforts
- Lives Saved
- 59 million
- Death Rate Reduction
- 88% since 2000
- Measles Cases in 2024
- 11 million
- Measles Deaths in 2024
- 95,000
- Vaccine Coverage (First Dose)
- 84%
- Vaccine Coverage (Second Dose)
- 76%
- Countries with Eliminated Measles
- 96
- Global Elimination Goal
- 2030
