Al-Mukalla – Health authorities in Yemen’s Hadramout coastal region have reported a sharp rise in measles cases, triggering urgent warnings of a potential epidemic amid deteriorating public health conditions.

According to the Hadramout Health Office, 494 suspected measles cases have been recorded across coastal districts, with 53 laboratory-confirmed infections and five child fatalities. 

Officials say nearly 70% of those infected had not received any measles vaccination, underscoring the impact of disrupted immunization campaigns and widespread vaccine hesitancy.

The outbreak is concentrated in key districts including Al-Mukalla (161 cases), Al-Daysh Al-Sharqiyah (112), and Hajar (78), with additional cases reported in Al-Shihr, Ghayl Bawazir, Rida & Qusaiyer, and Brom Mayfa.

Local health officials warn that the region is facing a “public health emergency,” exacerbated by parallel outbreaks of dengue fever (412 suspected cases) and cholera (184 suspected cases). Medical infrastructure remains strained, and access to care is limited in remote areas.

Humanitarian organizations are calling for immediate international support to contain the spread and restore vaccination coverage, particularly among vulnerable children.