In recent months, pediatricians and emergency services have seen a disease that was almost forgotten: measles. Between January 1 and April 13, 2025, France recorded 427 cases, almost as much as all year round 2024 (483 cases). This is revealed by the latest public health assessment France, which alerts the high movement of virus in France as in many countries. Children are not the only ones concerned, but they remain the most affected: there are many cases in toddlers (1 to 4 years), adolescents, and even among young adults, especially between 30 and 40 years old. Together, these four age groups represent almost half of the declared infections.
Measles: sometimes serious complications in the youngest
If measles is often perceived as a benign disease, it can however lead to serious forms, especially in infants or immunocompromised people. The report indicates thatA third of the patients had to be hospitalized or taken care of in the emergency room. Among them, nine have been admitted to resuscitation. 13 % of patients presented a complication, such as pneumopathies (36 cases reported) or more severe damage to the nervous system, such as encephalitis. Public health France also confirms thatA death was identified in an immunocompromised adult.
The majority of patients were not well vaccinated
This revival of circulation of the virus is partly explained by insufficient vaccine coverage. In people targeted by the vaccine, that is to say all those born since 1980 and aged over a year, More than 60 % were not vaccinated or poorly protected. A worrying figure for a disease as contagious as measles, which requires high collective immunity to stop the transmission chains.
Trips abroad in question in many cases
Another propagation factor: international trips. About 15 % of cases are considered importedoften after stays abroad. Morocco is the most frequently reported country of origin (29 cases), followed by Romania, Italy, Vietnam, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Guinea. These imported cases have sometimes been enough to trigger homes of contamination in France. In total, 12 clusters were identified, including one in a crèche, one in a family environment, and several in health establishments, mainly around revenue from Morocco.
Vaccination: Each opportunity counts
In this context, the health authorities recall the importance of verifying the vaccination status of children, but also adults born after 1980. The ROR vaccine (measles-oreillons-rubole) remains the best way to protect themselves, provided you have received the two recommended doses. Public Health France insists: Each contact with a health professional must be an opportunity to take stock. Whether it is a simple meeting with the pediatrician, a consultation for another reason, a school medical visit or a pharmacy, these moments are precious to catch vaccination delays.
