Measles vaccines save five lives every second, says WHO

Vaccines have played a crucial role in protecting global health, especially when it comes to highly contagious diseases like measles. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), five lives are saved every second thanks to measles vaccines, highlighting their vital importance. Recently, Brazil regained its certificate of eradication of the disease, standing out on the global stage for its vaccination efforts. This advance is a milestone that reflects both the effectiveness of vaccines and the need to continue and expand immunization campaigns.

The Measles Threat and the Global Response

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, rash and, in severe cases, complications that can lead to death. The WHO estimates that, before the introduction of vaccines, measles caused millions of deaths annually. With the emergence of vaccination campaigns, measles mortality fell drastically, saving millions of lives every year.

Even with advances, measles outbreaks continue to occur in different regions of the world, especially in areas with low vaccination coverage. Resistance to vaccination, misinformation and logistical difficulties are challenges that many countries face. Therefore, the WHO and other health organizations have intensified efforts to ensure that immunization reaches as large a part of the population as possible, especially children, who are most vulnerable to the virus.

Brazil's return to measles eradication status

In 2024, Brazil managed to regain its measles eradication certificate, a significant achievement that highlights the continued effort of health authorities and the population to contain the spread of the virus. After a critical period in which sporadic outbreaks threatened the achievement of eradication, the country intensified its vaccination campaigns, achieving high vaccination coverage rates.

_{Child being vaccinated (Photo: reproduction/Marcelo Camargo/Agência Brasil)}

The return to eradication status not only reinforces confidence in the Brazilian healthcare system, but also serves as an example for other countries facing similar challenges. Recent campaigns have prioritized hard-to-reach areas, indigenous populations and densely populated urban communities, ensuring that vaccination reaches the most vulnerable.

Challenges and future perspectives

Despite advances, challenges remain. Misinformation, driven by anti-vaccine movements, is still a significant barrier, not just in Brazil, but globally. Confidence in vaccines must be constantly reinforced through educational campaigns, which demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of immunization.

Furthermore, the logistics of maintaining high and uniform vaccination coverage require continuous investment in infrastructure and training of health professionals. International cooperation also plays a vital role, as measles control cannot be seen just as a national responsibility, but a global one.

Featured photo: Measles vaccine (Reproduction/Tânia Rêgo/Agência Brasil)