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Spain sees early surge in measles cases as experts warn of spring spread risk
Over 100 infections already recorded this year, with vaccination key to preventing further outbreaks
Spain has reported 101 measles cases in the first two months of 2026, making it the second most affected country in the EU so far this year.According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, a total of 350 cases were recorded across Europe in January and February, with Spain accounting for a significant share. While the number fell slightly in February, experts warn this may not last. “Transmission typically increases in the spring months,” the agency noted, raising concerns about further spread, particularly among those who are not fully vaccinated.
This follows a steady rise in measles cases seen over the past year, which had already put health authorities on alert in regions including Murcia.
Medical specialists are clear that measles remains a highly contagious disease. Dr Pablo García Montes explains: “Measles is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by a virus that primarily affects children, although it can also occur in unvaccinated adults.” The virus spreads through the air and can linger for hours, making it easy to pass on in enclosed spaces.
In fact, each infected person can spread the virus to between 15 and 20 others if they are not immunised. More than 90% of infections occur in unvaccinated individuals, underlining the importance of maintaining high vaccine coverage.
Doctors also stress that measles should not be dismissed as a mild illness. “It is not a trivial disease,” warns Dr José Ramón García López, pointing to the risk of complications. Up to 30% of children may experience issues such as pneumonia, ear infections or febrile seizures, while more serious complications like encephalitis can lead to lasting damage or even death.
Spain’s recent loss of its measles-free status has been described as a “wake-up call” for public health systems, highlighting the need to maintain strong vaccination programmes.
Over the past 12 months, more than 4,600 cases have been reported across EU and EEA countries, with a large proportion affecting young children and unvaccinated individuals. Nearly 80% of those infected had not received any vaccine doses.
Experts continue to emphasise that vaccination remains the most effective protection. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide more than 95% protection and are key to achieving what is known as herd immunity, which helps protect the wider community.
Earlier outbreaks in Spain had already shown how quickly measles can spread when vaccination coverage drops, even in countries that had previously brought the disease under control.
For now, the overall risk to the general population remains relatively low, thanks to high vaccination rates. However, health experts are urging people to check their vaccination status and remain vigilant, particularly as international travel and seasonal patterns increase the chances of further outbreaks in the coming months.
Image: wikicommons
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