Ongoing measles outbreaks could surge in summer, UKHSA warns
Health officials have warned of a potential surge of measles cases in the summer holidays as outbreaks continue around the country.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said there were 109 cases of measles confirmed in April and 86 so far in May across England.
Most cases have been in unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under, with ongoing outbreaks in a number of regions.
In particular, London reported almost half of all cases in the past four weeks, UKHSA officials said.
It follows global outbreaks of measles with the World Health Organisation and European public health bodies issuing warnings in recent months.
With an increase in 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, UKHSA added.
Overall, there have been 420 cases of laboratory-confirmed measles in the country in 2025.
Two-thirds were in children under the age of 10 but there are also cases reported in young people and adults, the figures show.
London – which has the lowest levels of MMR uptake in England – accounts for 39% of cases this year and 47% in the past four weeks.
By five years 73.3% of children in the capital have had both doses of the MMR compared with 83.9% for England as a whole.
Over the past month, smaller outbreaks have been reported in the North West and West Midlands, data shows.
Last year saw the biggest outbreak of measles in England since 2012, sparking a national incident and leading to a national catch-up campaign.
The Agency has previously warned that a sustained effort will be needed to reverse a declining trend in uptake of childhood vaccines and hit 95% targets.
Upcoming significant changes to the childhood immunisation schedule include a new 18-month appointment for the second MMR dose which officials hope will help boost uptake.
A recent analysis by WHO Europe and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), reported 127,350 measles cases in the European Region in 2024, double the number of cases reported for 2023 and the highest number since 1997.
Outside Europe, Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Nigeria currently have among the largest number of measles cases worldwide.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA consultant epidemiologist said: ‘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 cases are picking up again in England and outbreaks are happening in Europe and many countries with close links to the UK.
‘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.’
Dr Amanda Doyle, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, said: ‘Tens of thousands of additional MMR vaccinations were delivered following NHS action last year to protect children against measles, mumps and rubella, and the recent increase in cases seen in England and Europe should act as an important reminder to ensure your child is protected.
‘Too many babies and young children are still not protected against the diseases, which are contagious infections that spread very easily and can cause serious health problems.’
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