WHO removes Uzbekistan from list of measles-free countries

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stripped Uzbekistan of its measles-free status due to an increase in measles cases over recent years. Similar decisions have been made with regard to five other countries — Azerbaijan, Austria, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Armenia. Euronews reported this, citing the WHO.

According to experts from the international organization, measles outbreaks were recorded in the above-mentioned countries in 2024. Under WHO rules, if the virus re-emerges and its continuous transmission persists for more than one year, a country loses its measles-free status.

Specialists cite gaps in mass vaccination as the main reason for the sharp rise in cases. As a result, immunity levels have declined, particularly among minors. It is noted that in countries removed from the measles-free list, the highest number of infections is being recorded among children under the age of 10.

The WHO also emphasizes that the virus is spreading widely across many regions of Europe and Central Asia. In particular, the situation in Romania has deteriorated sharply. Countries with unfavorable statistics also include Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, Türkiye, France, Germany, Poland, and others. Among Central Asian states, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are also mentioned.

Given that the majority of measles cases occur among unvaccinated individuals, the WHO strongly recommends ensuring at least 95 percent population coverage with two doses of the measles vaccine.

In order to be reinstated on the list of measles-free countries, Uzbekistan must ensure the complete absence of virus circulation for three consecutive years and significantly strengthen epidemiological surveillance.

For reference, Uzbekistan was officially recognized as a measles-free country in 2017. At that time, WHO analysts stated that the decision was based on data from 2014–2016.

Measles is an acute viral infectious disease characterized by high fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and rash. The disease is dangerous due to possible complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and encephalitis. Vaccination remains the only effective method of protection against measles.