Letter from the Editor

Measles remains a leading cause of death among young children despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine. In 2008, there were 164 000 measles deaths globally, most of which occurred in low-income countries. The death rate from measles may be as high as 25% among people who are displaced, malnourished and have poor access to health care. The disease can also lead to severe health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, severe diarrhoea and blindness.