The number of measles cases in Flanders has more than tripled in 2024. In a campaign by the Department of Care, virologist Steven Van Gucht asks people in their thirties to check their vaccination status with his "catchiest hits" – as they may not be sufficiently protected.
Flanders registered 120 cases of measles in 2024, compared to only 35 in 2023. With 50 cases, the Flemish Brabant province is the centre of the outbreak, followed by East Flanders (30) and Antwerp (25). Limburg (8) and West Flanders (4) were largely spared. In three cases, the province was unclear.
Now, Van Gucht – who became a well-known face across the country during the Covid-19 pandemic – is launching an eye-catching Spotify playlist: he deliberately chose the "catchiest hits" from this age group's childhood years for his playlist, with songs by Britney Spears, 2Pac and Oasis. "Measles is extremely contagious and will continue to return as long as there are enough people who are not protected."
The campaign specifically targets people in their thirties, who may be insufficiently protected against the disease. Blood tests show that particularly people between 30 and 40 years old lack antibodies against measles.
Catching up
In fact, vaccination against measles was not introduced in Flanders until 1985. Ten years later, a second dose was added to the schedule. Additionally, in the early years, the vaccination rate was lower than now.
Those born before 1970 have usually gone through the disease and are therefore protected. Those in their thirties can check their vaccination status via myhealth.be. However, past vaccinations were not always recorded digitally, so it is advisable to also check old vaccination cards or GP records.
Those who are not (completely) vaccinated can get a free catch-up shot from their GP. If in doubt, a double catch-up vaccination is also recommended.
Symptoms range from the typical red spots, which start behind the ears and spread all over the body, to high fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, coughing and a runny nose. Measles can also lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia or meningitis.
