Measles
Introduction
WHO/J. Vandelaer
Measles still remains a leading cause of death among young children, especially in developing countries. In 2008 alone, an estimated 164 000 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 4 December 2009.