Why millions of people around the world will contract measles in 2026

Measles is making a comeback around the world. In places with low vaccination rates, a few cases can quickly become an epidemic.

By: Kathryn H. Jacobsen, University of Richmond, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 21, 2026

Words: 1,478

Last Updated: 1 month, 4 weeks ago


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By Kathryn H. Jacobsen, University of Richmond

The World Health Organization estimates that in 2026 nearly 11 million people will contract the virus that causes measles. Most of these cases will occur in Africa and Asia, but many countries in the Americas and Europe are reporting outbreaks affecting hundreds or thousands of people.

There is no treatment for measles, but vaccines have been proven to be safe and effective at preventing the …

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