Measles: a persistent threat despite an effective vaccine

Measles is a highly transmissible viral disease. Following a decrease in vaccination rate between 2020 and 2023 due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a new surge of cases is observed worldwide. No direct antiviral is currently licensed against measles. Young children and immunocompromised individuals are the most at risk to develop complications. The best way to prevent transmission and complications is through vaccination. Public health measures are required to break transmission chains and protect the most fragile ones. The aim of this article is to review the epidemiology and the virological aspects of measles, to clarify the protection conferred by vaccination and to specify the key elements of diagnosis and management.