In Bosnia and Herzegovina measles cases surge, with over 7,000 cases registered

SARAJEVO, 23 July 2024: Measles cases across Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to surge, with the number of measles cases reaching over 7,000, warned WHO and UNICEF today. There have been two deaths registered so far, both adolescents.

The latest estimates of national immunization coverage (WUENIC), released last week, show a concerning breakdown in measles vaccination in the country with a coverage rate of only 55 per cent. Rates need to reach at least 95 percent to prevent outbreaks in the community.

“There is no clearer sign of a breakdown in immunization coverage than an increase in measles cases. We must rapidly respond to surging cases through delivering public health measures and investing in a stronger health system across the country,” said Dr Erwin Cooreman, WHO Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Measles has a devastating effect on children’s health, with sometimes fatal consequences. It causes long-lasting weakening of children’s immune systems, making them more vulnerable to other infectious diseases. Where gaps in immunity exist within communities, measles – one of the most infectious human viruses – is often the first disease to spread.

“In 2024, there is no justification for children to be at risk of contracting this preventable disease. The measles vaccine is safe and effective. Stronger efforts need to be made to tackle inequities that may mean children are missing out on vaccination so we can bring these outbreaks under control, ” said Marc Lucet, UNICEF Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Vaccines for the prevention of measles not only protect vaccinated children, but also other people who can’t be vaccinated, including young infants and people with weakened immune systems caused by illness, such as cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

The WHO Country Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Regional offices of UNICEF and WHO for Europe,  are working closely with the public health authorities in BiH on this issue, in providing different kinds of support Bosnia and Herzegovina to respond to the outbreak. The agencies are urging for all stakeholders to add additional effort in addressing this problem to avoid unnecessary complications and loss of life related to missed vaccination. UNICEF and WHO in BiH will stay at the disposal of the authorities to provide support.

We appeal to parents to check the vaccination status of their children to ensure they have received 2 doses of MRP vaccine. If parents have further questions their paediatrician or family doctor are the best source of reliable information and can provide the necessary vaccinations.