Measles Outbreak in London: Rising Cases and Vaccination Concerns

A significant measles outbreak is currently affecting children in northeast London, prompting health officials to urge parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated. The outbreak, primarily impacting unvaccinated children under the age of 10, has led to hospitalizations and raises concerns about a potential wider spread across the capital.

Outbreak Details and Confirmed Cases

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed a “big measles outbreak” in schools and nurseries in northeast London. As of February 9, 2026, 34 laboratory-confirmed measles cases were reported in Enfield , with more than 60 suspected cases reported across seven schools and a nursery . At least one in five children who contracted the illness have been admitted to hospital , and all hospitalized children were not fully vaccinated.

Measles: A Highly Contagious Disease

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads easily among individuals who are not fully vaccinated. While most people recover, the disease can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation, and, in rare cases, long-term disability or even death . It is estimated to be six times more contagious than COVID-19 .

Vaccination Rates and Concerns

The outbreak is linked to declining vaccination rates. Only 64.3% of five-year-olds in Enfield had received both doses of the MMR vaccine in 2024/25 , one of the lowest rates in the country. The recommended vaccination rate to prevent outbreaks is 95%. Nationally, approximately 84% of 5-year-olds have received two doses of the MMR vaccine.

UK Measles Elimination Status

Earlier in 2026, global health officials announced that the UK is no longer considered to have eliminated measles, reporting nearly 4,000 infections since 2024 .

Call to Action and Prevention

Dr. Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, urges parents to ensure their children are vaccinated and to catch up on any missed doses as soon as possible . The MMRV vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella – chickenpox) is highly effective in preventing measles. Enfield Council is sending letters to all parents in the district and establishing temporary vaccination stations on school campuses to facilitate access.

Potential for Wider Spread

Health officials warn that the outbreak could spread across London due to frequent cross-regional work and study. Modeling by the UKHSA predicts a large-scale outbreak in London could infect between 40,000 and 160,000 people . A measles-related death was reported in Liverpool in July 2025.

Symptoms of Measles

Early symptoms of measles include a high fever, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and red, swollen, watery eyes. A reddish-brown patchy rash typically appears within a few days, starting on the face and spreading throughout the body.

There is no specific treatment for measles; prevention through vaccination is the most effective strategy.