The UN has said that Measles cases have surged by nearly 80 percent worldwide this year, warning that the rise of the “canary in a coal mine” illness indicates that outbreaks of other diseases are likely on the way.

According to new data from the UN agencies, more than 17,300 measles cases were reported globally in January and February, compared to around 9,600 during those months last year.

There have been 21 large and disruptive measles outbreaks in the last 12 months to April, most of them in Africa and the eastern Mediterranean.

Senior health adviser in UNICEF’s immunization section CHRISTOPHER GREGORY, told news agency that because measles is the “most contagious vaccine-preventable disease” it often serves as a warning sign.

He said yellow fever was among the diseases that could surge next, after rising cases were reported in West Africa.