Measles, flu, hantavirus: should we worry about the return of epidemics in Europe?
Published on 26/05/2026
The return of epidemics across Europe has been making headlines for months. Measles, flu, hantavirus: these names keep coming up, and it is natural to wonder what is actually going on. Should you be worried?
The short answer is: no need to panic, but staying informed is already a form of protection. Here is a clear breakdown of what is happening and what it means for you.
Why are these infectious diseases making headlines again?
If you feel like you’re hearing about infectious diseases more often than before, you’re not imagining it. But that’s not necessarily bad news either.
We’re detecting beter. Since COVID-19, health surveillance systems across Europe have improved significantly. The result: cases that might have gone unnoticed ten years ago are now identified, tracked, and reported in the media.
We’re traveling more. International travel makes it easier for certain viruses to spread between regions. An infection present in one specific area can now be detected much faster elsewhere.
Vaccination rates are dropping. This is the most concerning point. In several European countries, fewer people are vaccinated against diseases like measles. And when vaccination coverage drops, localized outbreaks start reappearing.
Measles: a “thing of the past” that isn’t
Many people think measles belongs to another era. It does not. However, the number of cases is increasing again across Europe.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a significant increase in measles cases in several European countries in recent years, directly linked to declining vaccination rates.
Measles is extremely contagious – far more so than most people realise. It presents with high fever, cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis, followed by a characteristic skin rash. In young children, pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals, complications can be serious.
What you can do: check that your vaccinations, and those of your children, are up to date. Vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles.
Need to review your vaccinations? A general practitioner can check your vaccination record and advise you. Book an appointment on Doctena →
Seasonal flu: common, but not harmless
Because it comes back every year, we tend to brush off the flu. Yet it continues to cause significant numbers of hospitalisations each winter, particularly among older people and those with underlying health conditions.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) regularly highlights that seasonal flu waves put real pressure on healthcare systems across Europe.
Intense fatigue, high fever, muscle pain, and in some cases serious respiratory complications: the flu is not just a bad cold. For people at risk, it can require prompt medical attention.
What you can do: every autumn, look into getting the flu vaccine, especially if you are over 65, have a chronic condition, or are pregnant. It is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and the people around you.
Hantavirus: rare, but worth knowing about
Hantavirus has been in the headlines recently, but it remains a rare infection in Europe. The virus is mainly transmitted by certain wild rodents: you can become infected by inhaling particles found in their droppings or urine.
Those most at risk are people who spend time in rural areas, barns, cellars, or places where rodents may be present. Symptoms (fever, muscle pain, fatigue, sometimes difficulty breathing) warrant a medical consultation.
For the general population, the risk remains low. No reason to change your habits, but it’s good to know it exists.
When should you see a doctor?
Most common infections clear up without complications. But certain signs should prompt you to seek medical advice quickly:
- A high fever that won’t come down
- Difficulty breathing
- Symptoms that are getting worse rapidly
- Unusual and prolonged fatigue
- Unusual symptoms after a recent trip
When in doubt, it is always better to consult sooner rather than later. A doctor can assess your situation and point you in the right direction.
Stay informed without giving in to fear
Between social media and alarming headlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by scary-sounding information. Yet the best approach remains simple: stay informed, follow official recommendations, and see a doctor when needed.
Being alert doesn’t mean being anxious. It just means taking care of yourself 💙
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