LONDON: A measles outbreak has affected several schools in the United Kingdom, with at least 34 children infected across north London, while officials have warned the number of cases could rise to around 60 as the highly contagious disease continues to spread.
Health authorities also reported 25 confirmed cases in the West Midlands so far this year, accounting for about 26 per cent of England’s total infections. In 2025, approximately 76 measles cases were recorded in the region.
Experts attributed the outbreak to declining vaccination coverage, noting that only about 84.4 per cent of children in the UK had received both doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine by the age of five during 2024–25, significantly below the 95 per cent coverage recommended by the World Health Organization to achieve herd immunity.
Last month, the WHO announced that the United Kingdom had lost its measles elimination status due to rising infections and falling immunisation rates.
Health officials have urged parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated, particularly ahead of school holidays and international travel. They advised that children should receive the first MMR dose between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between four and six years, while infants aged six to 11 months travelling abroad may require an early dose.
Authorities also recommended maintaining proper hygiene, including regular handwashing, and seeking immediate medical advice in case of exposure or symptoms.
Symptoms of measles commonly include cough, runny nose, fever, red and watery eyes, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue, followed by the characteristic skin rash.
Officials stressed the importance of checking children’s immunisation status to prevent further spread of the disease.