Measles in the Netherlands 2025: What You Need to Know

Many consider measles a thing of the past, but it is making its presence known again in the Netherlands this year. With 158 cases already reported by March 2025, the clusters of infections across primary schools and within families have highlighted the importance of vaccination and awareness.

Understanding Measles and Its Impact

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children but can seriously harm individuals of all ages. Symptoms often begin as a fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by the signature spotty rash. While many recover without complications, measles can lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation, or even death in severe cases.

Why Are We Seeing Clusters of Cases in 2025?

Although the Netherlands introduced the measles vaccine in 1976 and reports low numbers annually, major outbreaks tend to occur every 10 to 15 years. This is often linked to pockets of communities with low vaccination coverage.

This year, various factors have contributed to clusters of measles cases:

• Primary School Clusters: Outbreaks have been reported in five schools across Amsterdam, Haaglanden, Brabant-Zuidoost, Rotterdam-Rijnmond, and Flevoland. These schools, including public, Muslim, and anthroposophical institutions, all have low vaccination rates.
• Family Clusters: Several infections have been reported within families where both children and adults were unvaccinated.

Additionally, some cases were traced to travelers returning from countries currently experiencing a major measles outbreak, including Morocco, Romania, Vietnam, and Belgium.

Protecting Yourself and Your Community

Prevention is key to stopping the spread of measles. Whether your child has just been exposed or you’re planning to travel, here’s what you need to know:

Measles and Vaccination

The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself and others from measles. Children in the Netherlands typically receive their first dose at 14 months and a follow-up at 9 years old through the National Immunisation Programme.

If you or your child missed these vaccinations:

• Contact your local Municipal Public Health Service (GGD) or Centre for Youth and Family to schedule an appointment.
• Adults born after 1965 who have not been vaccinated should also consider getting immunised, especially before travelling to countries with outbreaks.

Traveling soon? Children under 14 months can receive an early MMR vaccination if they’re heading to areas with ongoing measles epidemics. Consult with a well-baby clinic or travelers’ health clinic to plan accordingly.

What to Do If You Suspect a Case of Measles

If you or your child shows symptoms of measles, it’s crucial to prevent the infection from spreading:

• Keep the Sick at Home: Stay at home and isolate for at least 4 days after the rash appears. This includes other unvaccinated children in your household.
• Avoid Visiting Vulnerable Populations: Steer clear of young babies, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems until the risk has passed.
• Inform Your GP: Call your doctor immediately if you suspect measles. Avoid visiting the GP’s office to prevent the virus from spreading in the waiting room.

By taking these steps, you can help reduce the spread of the virus and protect others around you.

The Global Perspective on Measles

A measles outbreak is not unique to the Netherlands. Several European countries, including Romania and Belgium, are struggling with rising cases. Outside of Europe, Morocco and Vietnam are among the nations with significant measles epidemics in 2025.

Travelers returning to the Netherlands after visiting these countries are sometimes unknowingly bringing the virus home. This highlights the importance of getting vaccinated before traveling.

Why Vaccination Matters

A measles vaccine doesn’t just protect individuals; it also plays a critical role in safeguarding entire communities. This concept, known as herd immunity, occurs when a high percentage of the population is vaccinated, making it harder for the virus to spread, even among those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Unfortunately, when vaccination rates drop, clusters of infection emerge, as seen in the Netherlands this year. Choosing to vaccinate helps minimize the impact of outbreaks and protect those who are most vulnerable.

Stay Healthy and Stay Aware

The recent rise in measles cases is a wake-up call. Whether you’re in a school community with low vaccination rates or planning a trip to an affected country, now is the time to prioritize protection.

• Parents: Make sure your child’s vaccinations are up to date.
• Travelers: Consult with your GP or a travel clinic for advice before you leave.
• Everyone: Spread awareness about the importance of vaccinations and the risks of measles.

By working together to boost vaccination rates and follow prevention guidelines, we can reduce the spread of measles and protect our communities.