Measles in Europe: Update 1

The European Centre for Disease Prevention & Control (ECDC) reports continued transmission of measles in Europe. From 1 January 2025 to 16 May 2025, countries reporting cases are:

Austria: 95 cases

Belgium: 95 cases

Czechia: 10 cases

Finland: 1 case

France: 427 cases (1 death)

Germany: 148 cases

Hungary: 3 cases

Ireland: 29 cases

Italy: 227 cases

Lithuania: 1 case

The Netherlands: 26 cases. 30 cases were reported to have contracted measles in Morocco, three in Romania, and one in each, Vietnam, Belgium and Iran.

Portugal: 19 cases

Romania: 6 401 cases (8 deaths)

Spain: 229 measles cases, of which 78 were imported and 78 were linked to an imported case. Some cases were linked to travel to Morocco.

Sweden: 6 cases

Advice for Travellers

Travel may increase an individual’s risk of exposure to measles virus, and facilitate the spread of disease to unvaccinated and susceptible populations. The travel consultation provides a valuable opportunity to ensure individuals are protected against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) viruses. Two doses of MMR vaccine, at least one month apart, are required to give adequate protection.

Consider vaccinating:

• all travellers who have not previously had two doses of MMR vaccine or prior measles infection
• travellers visiting friends and relatives (VFRs), and/or mixing closely with the local population
• younger children who have not yet been fully immunised

For children, first and second doses of MMR vaccine can be administered earlier than they would routinely be given within the UK Vaccination Schedule (2 doses of MMR vaccine around 12-13 months, and before starting school at around 3 years 4 months of age).

• MMR vaccine can be given from 6 months of age when early protection is required

See the TRAVAX Measles, Mumps and Rubella page for further information.