Key Metrics
12.15
Heat Index-
Impact LevelLow
-
Scope LevelGlobal
-
Last Update2025-07-25
Key Impacts
Positive Impacts (6)
Negative Impacts (6)
Event Overview
Israel is experiencing a significant measles outbreak with 73 reported cases, including 26 active cases. The outbreak has spread to cities like Jerusalem and Ganei Tikva, with some cases imported from abroad. Ten unvaccinated children under one year old are among the infected, and 18 patients are hospitalized. Belize has confirmed 13 measles cases, raising concerns amid national tensions. In the U.S., measles vaccination rates have declined in nearly 80% of counties post-COVID-19, with over 1,000 cases reported this year, reversing progress since 2000.
Event Timeline
Measles Outbreak Spreads in Israel and Belize as Vaccination Rates Decline in U.S. Counties
Israel is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with 73 cases reported recently, marking an increase of 9 cases since last week. Among these, 26 are active cases, while the rest are recovering. The outbreak has spread to multiple cities, including Ganei Tikva, Bnei Brak, Modiin Illit, and Jerusalem. Four cases were imported from Belgium, Serbia, Russia, and Vietnam, while 14 were linked to international outbreaks. The remaining cases were locally acquired. Ten infected children are under one year old and unvaccinated, and 18 patients have been hospitalized, including 15 children. The Health Ministry highlighted Safed as having the lowest vaccination rate, with 33% of children aged 1 to 6 unvaccinated, followed by Beit Shemesh, Kfar Chabad, and Jerusalem. The ministry urges parents to vaccinate children, especially those over six months old, and recommends a second dose for those who received only one dose at least three months ago.
In Belize, 13 measles cases have been confirmed, prompting the Ministry of Health to expand surveillance. The outbreak has raised concerns amid ongoing national tensions over wages and police conduct. The Public Service Union President, Dean Flowers, criticized the police department for excessive force during protests. Meanwhile, a viral video showing poor conditions at the Racoon Street Police Station has sparked public outrage. The Ministry of Home Affairs acknowledged the issue, but the situation remains unresolved.
In the U.S., measles vaccination rates have declined in nearly 80% of counties post-COVID-19, according to a Johns Hopkins University study. The study analyzed data from 2,066 counties across 33 states, revealing drops in vaccination rates, particularly in Texas, Kansas, and Colorado. For example, Gaines County, Texas, saw a 2-percentage-point increase but remains below the 95% herd immunity threshold. The U.S. has reported over 1,000 measles cases this year, reversing progress since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that 30% of cases involve children under 5, with 22% hospitalized. Public health officials emphasize the need for increased vaccination efforts to prevent further outbreaks.