How conflict is driving measles outbreaks in the Middle East and North Africa

Ongoing conflict in the Middle East and North Africa is driving an increase in ‘zero-dose’ children, raising the risk of preventable deaths from measles. In 2024 and 2025, measles cases rose by 25% in 18 conflict-affected countries, reaching 74,340 cases in 2025. Despite a global decrease in measles cases, vaccination rates remain below the 95% needed for herd immunity, particularly in conflict zones.