After a record low number of measles cases in 2017, several countries in the Western Pacific Region are experiencing measles outbreaks. In most countries in the Region, national immunization rates remain high, but some communities continue to miss out. With measles spreading rapidly in other parts of this interconnected world, WHO is urging countries across the Western Pacific to take rapid action to ensure their population is protected.

WHO is supporting countries across the Region in efforts to vaccinate all children and strengthen their outbreak preparation and response. The Organization is also encouraging countries to address the reasons why children are not being vaccinated in some communities; strengthening routine immunization, combating misinformation and improving understanding of the importance and safety of vaccines.