Health agency issues measles warning for London region

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has today issued a warning of continuing outbreaks of measles with London accounting for “almost half of all cases in the past four weeks”.

Across the UK there were “109 cases confirmed in April and 86 so far in May”, which have “predominantly been in unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under” according to the latest report by UKHSA.

“There has also been a global increase in measles cases including Europe over the last year and the Agency is concerned, that with travelling for holidays or to visit family this summer, there is a risk this could lead to another surge of measles cases in England,” says the health agency which is urging people to check if they’ve had two vaccination doses.

London has the lowest measles mumps rubella (MMR) vaccine uptake of all the English regions — just 73 per cent in London compared to the English average of 84 percent.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Europe and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), says the number of cases reported in the European Region for 2024 was 127,350 — the highest number since 1997.

UKHSA is concerned, that with people travelling for holidays or to visit family this summer, there is a risk this could lead to another surge of measles cases in England.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, says:

“It’s essential that everyone, particularly parents of young children, check all family members are up to date with two MMR doses, especially if you are travelling this summer for holidays or visiting family.

“Measles spreads very easily and can be a nasty disease, leading to complications like ear and chest infections and inflammation of the brain with some children tragically ending up in hospital and suffering life-long consequences. Nobody wants this for their child and it’s not something you want to experience when away on holiday.

“The MMR vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family from measles. Babies under the age of 1 and some people who have weakened immune systems can’t have the vaccine and are at risk of more serious complications if they get measles. They rely on the rest of us getting the vaccine to protect them.

“It is never too late to catch up, if you’re not sure if any of your family are up to date, check their Red Book or contact your GP practice. Don’t put it off and regret it later.”

Anyone, whatever age, who has not had two doses of the MMR vaccine can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment.

More information about the measles mumps rubella (MMR) vaccine for all ages.