Focus Report Measles in the ASEAN Region

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease transmitted through respiratory droplets released when an infected individual breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The infection can cause severe complications and, in some cases, death, with children representing the most frequently affected population. Immunization remains the most effective intervention to prevent infection and interrupt transmission. Prior to the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963 and the subsequent expansion of immunization programs, recurrent epidemics occurred every two to three years, resulting in an estimated 2.6 million deaths annually (WHO, 2025a).