Epidemiological trends and clinical characteristics of measles in Iraq (2023–2024): a retrospective cross-sectional study

Background: Measles remains a major public health challenge globally, particularly in regions with low vaccination coverage. Iraq has experienced recurrent outbreaks in recent years, primarily due to inconsistent vaccination rates and a weakened healthcare system. This study aims to analyze the epidemiological patterns and clinical features of measles in Iraq to develop effective public health interventions. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study examined measles cases reported from January 2023 to August 2024, utilizing data from the national surveillance system. The analysis emphasized demographic and clinical information, specifically vaccination status, and clinical symptoms. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25, incorporating descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and Chi-square tests. Results: The measles incidence in Iraq increased significantly from 22.1 to 69.3 cases per 100,000 population. Notable rises in cases were observed among infants under 9 months (12% to 16.7%) and individuals over 15 years (6.4% to 12.1%). The percentage of cases with unknown vaccination status rose from 42.5% to 50.2%. Symptoms such as fever and rash were prevalent, exhibiting significant variations by age and vaccination status. Conclusion: The resurgence of measles in Iraq from January 2023 to August 2024 highlights significant public health challenges driven by socio-economic instability. The increase in cases, particularly among under-immunized populations and infants, necessitates urgent action. Strengthening vaccination programs, enhancing public awareness, and improving healthcare access are essential. Additionally, better surveillance and record-keeping are crucial for effective outbreak management. Tailored public health strategies are needed to address geographic disparities in incidence, and further research on vaccine hesitancy is critical for developing robust catch-up vaccination campaigns. © The Author(s) 2025.