The UK is facing a concerning resurgence of measles, with outbreaks reported in several North London schools, primarily affecting unvaccinated children under 10. NHS doctor Suraj Kukadia, known as Dr Sooj, has highlighted the urgency of the situation, warning the public to take this highly contagious disease seriously and prioritize vaccination.
Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows 96 confirmed measles cases in England so far this year, a troubling rise compared to previous years. With over 2,900 cases recorded in 2024—the highest annual tally since 2012—health officials are alarmed by the rapid spread. The current outbreaks mirror global trends, with countries like the US and Canada witnessing record cases and setbacks in measles elimination.
Measles initially presents with cold-like symptoms before a distinctive rash develops. While often perceived as a childhood illness, it can result in severe complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, vision loss, seizures, and even death. Alarmingly, 20 measles-related deaths were recorded between 2019 and 2025, matching totals from the previous 19 years, underlining the disease’s renewed threat.
READ MORE: Somerset Fire Brigade’s Council Tax Share to Increase by £5
READ MORE: Yeovil Town Falls to Aldershot in 2-1 Home Defeat
Dr Sooj recalls how previously rare measles cases have become more common again due to declining vaccination rates. “I never saw a measles rash until a couple of years ago,” he explains. “Vaccination was so effective that even doctors rarely encountered it. Now, infection rates are rising because vaccination coverage has dropped.”
The UK’s measles elimination status between 2021 and 2023 has been compromised by falling childhood vaccination rates, which are now the lowest in a decade. Public health experts stress that 95% vaccine coverage is necessary to sustain herd immunity and protect vulnerable groups such as infants too young for vaccination, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women.
The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is available free on the NHS and highly effective—93% after one dose and 97% after two. Dr Sooj urges, “Please get vaccinated and keep your children vaccinated. Measles is entirely preventable, but only if we maintain high vaccination coverage.”
Symptoms to watch for include small white spots inside the cheeks, followed by a rash starting on the face and behind the ears that spreads across the body. The rash may form blotchy patches but is generally not itchy. Measles spreads easily through breathing, coughing, or sneezing, with infectiousness beginning about four days before the rash appears and lasting until four days after.
To prevent further transmission, the NHS recommends excluding affected individuals from school or work for at least four days after a rash onset and avoiding contact with babies, pregnant women, or those with weakened immune systems. Anyone suspecting measles should seek urgent medical advice via their GP or NHS 111.
With global and local measles outbreaks on the rise, the message from health professionals is clear: vaccination saves lives. Ensuring up-to-date immunizations is essential in stopping measles in its tracks and protecting communities across the UK.