Fact Check: Measles is not a dangerous disease for children

Fact Check: "Measles is not a dangerous disease for children"

What We Know

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to severe health complications, particularly in children. According to the CDC, before the introduction of the measles vaccine, approximately 400-500 deaths occurred annually in the United States due to measles, with many more hospitalized. In 2025 alone, there were 1,197 confirmed cases of measles reported, with three deaths attributed to the disease (CDC, 2025).

Globally, the situation is even more alarming. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that in 2023, there were an estimated 10.3 million cases of measles worldwide, a 20% increase from the previous year. This surge in cases resulted in approximately 107,500 deaths, predominantly among children under five years old (WHO, 2024). The WHO emphasizes that measles is preventable with vaccination, yet millions of children missed their vaccinations, leading to increased outbreaks and fatalities (WHO, 2024).

Analysis

The claim that "measles is not a dangerous disease for children" is contradicted by substantial evidence from credible health organizations. The CDC and WHO both highlight the severe complications associated with measles, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and blindness, particularly in young children (CDC, 2025; WHO, 2024).

The CDC further notes that measles is an airborne disease, meaning it can be transmitted easily in crowded environments, and it can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area (CDC, 2025). This characteristic contributes to its potential for rapid spread in communities with low vaccination rates.

Moreover, the WHO's data indicates that despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine, inadequate immunization coverage has led to a resurgence of measles cases globally, threatening the health of children who are most vulnerable (WHO, 2024). The claim downplays the risks associated with measles and fails to acknowledge the significant public health challenges posed by the disease, especially in under-vaccinated populations.

In evaluating the reliability of these sources, both the CDC and WHO are recognized as authoritative public health organizations with extensive research and surveillance capabilities. Their data is based on rigorous scientific analysis and reflects a consensus in the medical community regarding the dangers of measles.

Conclusion

The claim that "measles is not a dangerous disease for children" is False. The evidence clearly demonstrates that measles poses significant health risks, including severe complications and mortality, particularly among unvaccinated children. The resurgence of measles cases globally and the associated fatalities underscore the critical importance of vaccination in preventing this highly contagious disease.