Posted on: 25 January 2024
Data published by the UK Health Security Agency shows there has been a steady rise in measles cases over the past 12 months.
Indeed, there were more than 200 measles cases in the UK last year, compared to 54 cases in 2022.
Parents are advised to check their children are fully vaccinated with 2 MMR doses, which gives 99 percent life-long protection, by checking their red book or with their GP practice, which younger and older adults can also do; and, if necessary, make an appointment as soon as possible.
CNWL’s Child Immunisation Service works across London to offer the vaccine to children. You can contact the team on 0203 317 5076 if you have queries and to book catch-up appointments for those aged 5-18.
Achieving high vaccination coverage across the population is important as it indirectly helps protect very young infants (under one) and other vulnerable groups.
All children and adults should catch up on any missed vaccinations and this is especially important if travelling overseas this summer.
The UKHSA assessment finds the risk of a measles epidemic across the UK is considered low, but with lower current levels of coverage in London, a measles outbreak of between 40,000 and 160,000 cases could occur in the capital.
The assessment also concludes that there is a high risk of cases linked to overseas travel leading to outbreaks in specific population groups such as young people and under-vaccinated communities.
The risk in London is mainly due to low vaccination rates over several years, further impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in some areas and groups where coverage is as low as 65.4 percent.
What is measles and what are the symptoms?
Measles is a highly contagious disease that is spread by coughs and sneezes.
- high fever
- sore, red and watery eyes
- coughing
- sneezing
Small white spots may appear inside the mouth and A blotchy red or brown rash usually appears after a few days, typically on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.