Measles is back: Somalia cannot afford another outbreak

Abstract

Measles is re-emerging in Somalia, driven by persistently low vaccination coverage, widespread displacement, and fragile health services. Coverage remains far below the 95% threshold required for herd immunity, leaving large numbers of children especially under-fives unprotected. Conflict, climate shocks, and malnutrition have intensified transmission risks, particularly in overcrowded settlements with limited access to routine immunization. Globally, measles cases and deaths have risen sharply following disruptions linked to COVID-19, with the greatest burden in low-income, high-fragility settings such as Somalia. Without urgent action, the country faces a high risk of another large-scale, preventable outbreak. Strengthening routine immunization, restoring cold-chain capacity, deploying mobile outreach to underserved populations, and rebuilding community trust in vaccines are critical. Somalia cannot afford another measles outbreak; protecting children through timely vaccination must be treated as an immediate public health priority.