News outlets report on new data from the WHO showing a significant decline in global deaths from measles since 2000.

BBC News: Measles global deaths decline by 78%, WHO estimates
“Global deaths from measles dropped 78 percent between 2000 and 2012, the World Health Organization estimates. New figures from the WHO suggest that around 13.8 million deaths were prevented during this time and reported cases declined by 77 percent…” (2/6).

Bloomberg: Measles Deaths Plunge 78% Since 2000 as Elimination Target Nears
“Deaths from measles have dropped 78 percent since 2000 as global vaccination campaigns curb outbreaks of the pneumonia-causing disease, the World Health Organization said. About 122,000 people died globally from measles in 2012, down from 562,000 in 2000, the Geneva-based WHO said in a statement today. Reported cases fell by a similar proportion…” (Bennett, 2/6).

UNICEF: UNICEF notes strong results in new global estimates for measles mortality 2000-2012
“UNICEF today noted that the drop in measles demonstrates the importance of investing in vaccines and immunization — both routine and mass campaigns — as estimated global measles deaths decreased by 78 percent from more than 562,000 in 2000 to 122,000 in 2012…” (2/6).

WHO: Measles deaths reach record lows with fragile gains toward global elimination
“…Despite the impressive gains made, progress towards measles elimination remains uneven with some populations still unprotected. Measles continues to be a global threat, with five of six WHO regions still experiencing large outbreaks and with the Region of the Americas responding to many importations of measles cases…” (2/6).