Measles, previously considered eradicated, has reappeared in Spain. Health authorities state that the increase in the number of cases is linked to the decrease in vaccination rates in Romanian and Moroccan communities.

Measles, a disease considered eradicated, has reappeared in Spain, and health authorities blame the Romanian and Moroccan communities for the increase in cases. Experts emphasize that the decrease in vaccination coverage, which no longer reaches the 95% threshold necessary for herd immunity, is the main factor. In 2024, the first outbreaks were observed, with a coverage of 96.65% for the first dose of the vaccine, but only 91.75% for the second dose.

Measles spreads rapidly, with a 43% increase in cases in the first months of 2025 compared to 2024, with the most affected regions being Andalusia, the Basque Country, and Catalonia. Authorities warn of the real risk of reintroducing the disease and strengthen surveillance measures, including epidemiological checks at the border.

In Romania, anti-vaccination sentiment and the lack of an effective vaccination strategy have led to a measles epidemic, with eight unvaccinated children dying in the first part of the year. Experts insist that maintaining high vaccination coverage is essential to protect the progress made in eliminating the disease.