Six countries have re-established endemic measles transmission based on 2024 reporting

WHO/Europe response to the UK losing its 'eliminated' status for measles

Copenhagen, 26 January 2026 

A WHO/Europe Spokesperson said: 

The UK's change of status reflects a broader challenge we're facing across the WHO European Region. Outbreaks of measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases are threats to health security in Europe, alongside antimicrobial resistance and other emerging threats. Persistent immunity gaps led to a Region-wide resurgence in measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases in 2024 and a decrease in the number of countries that have achieved or sustained measles elimination status. Through strengthened surveillance, improved outbreak response, and focused efforts to reach under-vaccinated communities, all countries can achieve and sustain elimination.

For more: https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/events/item/2025/09/15/default-calendar/14th-meeting-of-the-european-regional-verification-commission-for-measles-and-rubella-elimination-(rvc) 

eupress@who.int