Experts Warn of Measles and Whooping Cough Surge Amid Vaccine Gaps
Leading medical experts in Austria have issued an urgent warning regarding the resurgence of preventable infectious diseases, citing significant gaps in the population’s immunization coverage. Diseases once considered under control, including measles, whooping cough (pertussis), and hepatitis A, are seeing a concerning uptick in cases across the federal provinces.
In response to these emerging health threats, the Ministry of Health has confirmed that a comprehensive update to the National Vaccination Plan is currently under review, with official adjustments set to be implemented by January 17, 2026.
The Return of “Forgotten” Diseases
Data from the past year indicates that declining vaccination rates have weakened “herd immunity,” allowing highly contagious pathogens to circulate more freely.
- Measles: Outbreaks have been reported in several urban centers, posing a severe risk to infants and immunocompromised individuals.
- Whooping Cough: Medical practitioners are seeing a spike in pertussis cases among teenagers and adults whose childhood boosters have lapsed.
- Hepatitis A: Experts are tracking localized clusters, often linked to travel or contaminated food sources, exacerbated by low localized vaccination uptake.
Upcoming Changes to the National Vaccination Plan
To address these vulnerabilities, the Austrian vaccination committee is finalizing a strategy to modernize the country’s immunization schedule. While the full details will be revealed on January 17, 2026, insiders suggest the updates will focus on:
- Expanded Booster Recommendations: More aggressive reminders for adults to refresh their pertussis and polio protection.
- School-Based Programs: Strengthening the “Impfaktion” (vaccination campaigns) within the education system to catch students who missed doses during the previous years.
- Digital Integration: Utilizing the ID Austria and ELGA (Electronic Health Record) systems to provide citizens with automated “vaccination passes” and expiration alerts.
Medical Experts Speak Out
“We are seeing a dangerous trend where the success of past vaccination campaigns has led to a false sense of security,” stated a spokesperson for the Austrian Society of Pediatrics. “Measles and whooping cough are not just ‘childhood illnesses’; they can lead to severe complications, hospitalization, and long-term health issues.”
Health officials emphasize that the most effective way to prevent a larger-scale outbreak in 2026 is for citizens to consult their general practitioners to verify their current vaccination status.
How to Check Your Status
Austrian residents can view their vaccination history via the ELGA Portal or by consulting their physical yellow “Impfpass.” For those needing to catch up, many vaccinations are offered free of charge or at a subsidized rate through the Public Health Service (Gesundheitsamt).
As the January deadline approaches, the government is expected to launch a nationwide awareness campaign to ensure the public is informed of the new 2026 guidelines.
