Italy recorded a 78.1% increase in measles cases in 2026, according to QuiFinanza. In response, the country's health ministry called for vaccination coverage to be raised.
The rise has drawn warnings from health professionals and regional authorities. Matteo Bassetti said the country is only at the beginning of a serious outbreak, according to Il Fatto Quotidiano. RomaToday reported that cases are also climbing in Rome and the Lazio region, where it said too many people remain unvaccinated.
Pediatricians have pointed to how easily the disease spreads, with Il Sole 24 ORE reporting that one infected person can pass measles to as many as 17 others. RaiNews also covered the increase in cases across Italy.
The reports place the ministry's call for higher coverage against a backdrop of rising infections and gaps in immunization. The coverage does not specify which regions or age groups are most affected beyond the Lazio alert.
What to watch next: whether Italian health authorities announce new vaccination measures or updated case figures in the coming weeks.
