Measles Cases Rise in England: What You Need to Know
Figures published by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) indicate a concerning rise in measles cases across England since the beginning of 2026. As of January 1, 2026, a total of 158 laboratory-confirmed cases of measles have been reported, with a significant concentration in London and the West Midlands.
Current Outbreak Statistics
The majority of cases – 66% (104) – have been identified in London, while 21% (33) are located in the West Midlands. UKHSA officials caution that the actual number of cases may be higher due to the virus’s rapid transmission rate.
Urgent Calls for Vaccination
Schools in the London area are actively encouraging parents to verify their children’s vaccination status to minimize the spread of this serious illness. Dr. Ben Kasstan-Dabush, Assistant Professor in Global Health & Development at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), emphasized the immediate priority: “ensure that all children catch-up on any missed vaccinations.” He noted that travel during school holidays facilitates virus circulation.
In Hackney, approximately one in three children have not received their first dose of the measles vaccine by the age of two, contributing to patchy vaccination coverage and increased risk. A child sadly died in Liverpool’s Alder Hey Children’s Hospital after contracting measles in July 2025.
Declining Vaccination Rates and Contributing Factors
There has been a downward trend in routine childhood vaccination coverage over the past decade, leading to nationwide measles outbreaks since 2024, with cases recorded in every local authority in England. For the 2024-2025 period, 88.9% of children in England received their first dose of the Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) vaccine by two years of age. UKHSA data shows this is consistent with the previous year but remains below the 95% threshold recommended by the World Health Organization to prevent widespread transmission.
Rising cases are particularly prevalent in deprived neighborhoods and among families experiencing frequent moves. Dr. Kasstan-Dabush highlighted the impact of the cost of living crisis and austerity measures on vaccination rates.
Why is Measles Dangerous?
Measles is one of the world’s most contagious viruses. One infected person can infect 12 to 18 others, and one in 15 will develop serious complications, such as encephalitis (serious brain inflammation). One in five children with measles requires hospitalization. An estimated 107,500 people died globally from measles in 2023, primarily unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children under five.
UK Measles Elimination Status
The U.K. Lost its measles elimination status in January 2026, following 2,911 cases recorded in England in 2024 – the highest number since 2012. Almost 1,000 cases were recorded in England in 2025, and over 150 have already been reported in 2026.
Vaccination Recommendations
Because of measles’s high contagiousness, 95% of the population needs to have completed the full course of vaccinations on schedule to prevent outbreaks. More than 99% of individuals who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine have lifelong protection against measles. On January 2, 2026, young children in England began being offered two doses of the combined MMRV vaccine, protecting against chickenpox (varicella) in addition to measles, mumps, and rubella.
Is the Measles Vaccine Safe?
The scientific consensus is that measles vaccines are safe. There is no evidence to support claims linking the MMR vaccine to autism; these claims have been repeatedly proven fraudulent.
Who Should Obtain Vaccinated?
Measles can be as severe in adults as in children, and all adults should check their vaccination status. Vaccination is especially important for those planning to start a family, as measles can lead to stillbirth, miscarriage, and low birth weight during pregnancy.
Where to Find More Information
If you or your child has not received both doses of the measles vaccine at the recommended schedule, it’s never too late. Contact your GP or a local pharmacist for advice and information on vaccine options. If you were born or raised abroad, you may still need a vaccine in the U.K. To be protected.
For general enquiries about the UKHSA, contact Enquiries@ukhsa.gov.uk. For research enquiries, email Research.Support@ukhsa.gov.uk.