Understanding the Resurgence of Measles: Three Essential Questions

With measles resurging in several parts of the world, the Institut Pasteur provides a clear, accessible analysis addressing three key questions:

1. Why is measles coming back? Mainly due to insufficient vaccination coverage, which disrupts herd immunity and allows outbreaks to spread rapidly.

2. Is the measles vaccine still effective? Yes. Two doses of the MMR vaccine (usually administered at 12 months and between 16–18 months) provide long-lasting, highly effective protection.

3. Does measles affect only children? No. The current median age of infection in France is around 17 years, with many adolescent and adult cases—highlighting the need for broad immunization.

This analysis acts as an important reminder: vigilance and vaccination remain essential to prevent severe complications. It also illustrates how modern epidemiology supports public-health decision-making ; another core theme in the INCEPTION framework.

Read the full article here