A highly contagious infectious disease is making its way across Europe, with a handful of countries reporting an outbreak. This disease, which was common and killed a significant number of children during the Victorian era, has made a major comeback.

Last year was the worst for measles in Europe and Central Asia since 1997, with more than 120,000 cases reported across the continent. Health authorities have warned that cases are likely to rise in the coming months, having already been on the increase for months. So far in 2025, about 4,500 cases have been reported across the European Union, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). In fact, over 3,200 cases have been reported in one country alone.

Over the past year, many cases have been among unvaccinated children under the age of five, the ECDC said, reported EuroNews.

According to the agency's data through the end of March 2025, the vast majority of the EU's measles cases are in Romania, which has reported 3,203 infections as of late March. Four people have died, making it the only EU country with measles-related deaths this year.

The country's year-long outbreak has been driven by an anti-vaccine movement, conflicting health guidance and an overwhelmed medical system. In 2023, only 62% of the population was fully vaccinated against measles, far below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks.

Elsewhere in Europe, 345 cases have been recorded in France, with at least 41 infections linked to someone who brought the virus in from Morocco, compared to 26 cases last year. In Italy, 227 infections have been recorded so far - more cases than anywhere in the EU except Romania. Its vaccination rate in 2023 was 85% - too low to stop outrbreaks.

Spain is experiencing outbreaks in several parts of the country, resulting in 202 reported measles infections this year, most of which imported from outside the country. However, 92% of Spaniards were fully vaccinated in 2023, meaning the country was nearly at herd immunity, when those immune provide indirect protection for those who are not.

Measles is an infection that spreads very easily and can cause serious problems in some people, the NHS website explains. It usually starts with cold-like symptoms, including a high temperature, runny or blocked nose and a cough, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also develop small spots in their mouth.

The rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body. The spots of the rash are sometimes raised and join together to form blotchy, non-itchy patches.

Those with measles are advised to stay off work, school or nursery for at least four days when the rash first appears. Also try to avoid close contact with babies and anyone who is pregnant or has a weakened immune system.

Vaccination is effective at keeping people from getting sick. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, as well as mumps and rubella. Two doses are recommended to provide lifelong protection. The first dose is usually given around the child's first birthday, and the second dose is typically given around three years old.