Why Measles Is Surging in Europe and What’s Being Done: Q&A

Measles cases are surging in Britain and parts of continental Europe, with poor vaccination coverage leaving children at risk of the deadly infection. The UK Health Security Agency has declared a national incident and warned that a cluster of cases is likely to spread across other towns and cities if urgent action isn’t taken. Cases are being reported in countries that have previously achieved measles elimination, threatening global efforts to eliminate the disease.

Measles is a highly contagious infection that spreads very easily when a person who has the disease breathes, coughs or sneezes. It can cause serious complications and even death. It is most common in children, with symptoms including a runny nose, a cough, red and watery eyes and small white spots inside the cheeks. A rash usually appears after a few days of having the cold-like symptoms.