In 2023, significant increases in the number of measles cases and outbreaks were observed globally, including in 40 of the 53 countries of the European region, and in at least ten EU/EEA countries.
Measles cases are expected to continue increasing in the EU/EEA in the coming months due to sub-optimal vaccination coverage for measles-containing vaccines (MCV) in a number of EU/EEA countries.
Mass gatherings can be anything from high-profile athletic events to religious gatherings or cultural events and festivals. ECDC aims to provide public health authorities in the EU/EEA countries with general considerations in relation to preparedness for organised mass gatherings, focusing on infectious disease threats.