As children prepare to return to school, concerns are rising over measles infections and vaccination coverage across England. Over the summer, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) urged parents to ensure their children catch up on essential vaccines, particularly the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. Despite these efforts, recent data reveals that only 83.7% of children had received both doses of the MMR vaccine by their fifth birthday—a decline from the previous year and significantly below the 95% vaccination goal.
Across Europe, measles cases are resurging, heightening fears that UK families traveling abroad over the summer may have brought infections back from outbreak hotspots. In England, lab-confirmed measles cases appear to have decreased during the school break, although this may reflect delays in reporting. As of August 18, a total of 742 confirmed cases have been reported this year, including 40 new cases mostly concentrated in London and the North West within the past month.
Hackney has experienced the highest number of cases, with 94 reported, including 15 new infections. Alarmingly, Hackney also ranks second lowest in vaccination coverage, with just 58.8% of children vaccinated by age five. Bristol follows with 47 cases linked to an outbreak that began last autumn, though no new cases have emerged there since May. Meanwhile, Salford in Greater Manchester has seen recent rises, accumulating 39 cases to date.
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The tragic death of a child from measles at Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool earlier this year underscores the serious risks posed by the disease. Most confirmed cases in England have been in children under ten, with London accounting for half of all infections—reflecting the capital’s alarmingly low vaccination rates. In fact, 19 of the 20 areas with the lowest MMR coverage are in London, and no council across England currently reaches the WHO-recommended 95% vaccination threshold needed for herd immunity.
Worryingly, vaccination rates have slipped below 75% in 30 council areas including Nottingham, Manchester, and many London boroughs—up from 22 areas last year. Dr. Vanessa Saliba, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, strongly advises parents to use the holiday period to update their children’s vaccinations, emphasizing that “two doses of the MMR vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family from measles.” Vulnerable groups, such as babies under one year and individuals with weakened immune systems, depend on widespread vaccination to prevent serious complications.
The MMR vaccine schedule begins with the first dose at one year old and a second dose around three years and four months. Two doses protect approximately 99% of recipients against measles and rubella; although immunity to mumps is slightly lower, vaccinated individuals typically experience milder symptoms. Anyone who has missed these doses can book an appointment with their GP at any age—it’s never too late to catch up.
Stay informed about measles cases and vaccination coverage in your local area by using our interactive map to help protect your community and loved ones this school year.