Kyrgyzstan has emerged as the country with the highest measles infection rate in Eurasia, raising alarm among health authorities and highlighting urgent vaccination gaps, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Health officials report that Kyrgyzstan has recorded 1,167 measles cases per one million people, the highest rate in the region. At least 11 deaths linked to the disease have also been confirmed, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

Measles Cases Rising Across Several Countries

While Kyrgyzstan leads the region, measles remains a concern in other parts of Europe and Eurasia. Romania reported 222 cases per million people, while Belgium recorded 33 cases per million.

Despite an overall downward trend in some European Union countries, infection levels remain elevated in Ukraine, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Georgia, and Israel.

Following a major outbreak in 2024, several countries-including Austria, Azerbaijan, Armenia, the United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan-lost their measles-free status.

WHO Warns Vaccination Gaps Allow Virus to Spread

The WHO emphasized that measles will continue to spread unless countries reach at least 95% vaccination coverage and strengthen disease surveillance systems.

“Until every country achieves high vaccination coverage, closes immunity gaps across all age groups, and ensures rapid outbreak response, this highly contagious virus will continue to spread,” the organization warned.

One of the Most Contagious Viral Diseases

Measles is an airborne viral infection that spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. It is considered one of the most infectious diseases, roughly 12 times more contagious than influenza. A single infected person can transmit the virus to up to 18 unvaccinated individuals.

Children typically receive their first measles vaccine dose between 12 and 15 months of age, followed by a second dose between ages four and six.

Serious Complications Possible Without Vaccination

Common symptoms include runny nose, cough, and red eyes, usually lasting about a week. However, measles can cause severe complications such as pneumonia, blindness, ear infections, and encephalitis-a dangerous brain inflammation that can lead to permanent damage.

Health experts warn that increasing vaccination rates remains the most effective way to prevent further outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.