Measles
Introduction
WHO/J. Vandelaer
Measles still remains an important cause of death among young children, especially in developing countries. In 2010 alone, an estimated 139 300 died from the disease, often from secondary complications related to pneumonia, diarrhoea and encephalitis.
Although there is no cure, a highly effective, safe and relatively inexpensive vaccine has been available since the 1960s. Therefore, every case of measles is preventable and any death or disability from measles is unacceptable.
Last updated: May 2012