A resurgence of a disease commonly associated with the Victorian era is currently affecting the UK, with health authorities reporting 542 cases so far this year. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has provided a comprehensive analysis of these cases, detailing their monthly distribution and pinpointing the affected cities.
From January 1 to May 11, a total of 542 measles cases have been identified, highlighting a significant public health concern. This disease, often linked to the 19th century due to its historical prevalence, saw 959 cases by the year 2025, and a notable spike in 2024 with 2,911 cases—the highest annual count since 2012. Measles is extremely contagious, necessitating about 95% vaccine coverage to establish herd immunity, yet vaccination rates remain insufficient in many UK regions, particularly among children.
In terms of monthly distribution, the UKHSA recorded 106 cases in April, 142 in February, 141 in March, and another 142 in April, with an additional 11 cases emerging by May 11.
The age distribution of the cases shows that 349 (64%) were children aged 10 and under, while 165 (30%) were individuals aged 15 and older.
Geographically, London accounted for 309 cases (57%), while the West Midlands reported 116 cases (21%). Meanwhile, the North West of England registered 52 cases (10%).
Focusing on specific areas, Enfield reported 100 cases, Birmingham had 76, and Islington recorded 44 cases. The London boroughs of Haringey, Camden, Barnet, and Hackney also experienced notable outbreaks, with 43, 16, 13, and 13 cases respectively.
The UKHSA is urging parents to check their children’s MMR vaccination status. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide lifelong protection against the disease.
The NHS advises: “The MMRV and MMR vaccines can prevent measles. Both vaccines also protects you from mumps and rubella, and the MMRV vaccine also protects you from chickenpox.
“The MMRV vaccine is offered to all young children in the UK. The MMR vaccine is recommended for adults and older children if they were not vaccinated when they were younger.
“Ask at your GP surgery if you’re not sure you or your child have had either of these vaccines. Your GP can vaccinate you for free on the NHS.”
Data shows that only around 84% of children in the UK receive both doses by the age of five. This is below the 95% herd immunity threshold recommended by the World Health Organisation.
The viral infection causes a distinctive skin rash and severe flu-like symptoms. While it usually clears up on its own, it can lead to life-threatening complications like pneumonia and brain inflammation.
Measles lives in the nose and throat of infected people and spreads through the air when they breathe, cough or sneeze. A person is contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after.
The NHS says: “Measles is an infection that spreads very easily and can cause serious problems in some people. Having the MMRV or MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent it.”
You should call 111 if:
- you think you or your child may have measles
- your child is under 1 year old and has come into contact with someone who has measles
- you’ve been in close contact with someone who has measles and you’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system
- you or your child have not had measles or 2 doses of either the MMRV or MMR vaccine and you (or your child) have been in close contact with someone with measles
- you or your child have a high temperature that has not come down after taking paracetamol or ibuprofen
- you or your child have difficulty breathing – you may feel more short of breath than usual
- your baby or young child is not feeding well, or taking less feeds or fluids than usual
- you or your child are peeing less than usual (or your baby has fewer wet nappies)
- you or your child feels very unwell, or you’re worried something is seriously wrong
The health service adds: “Measles can spread to others easily. Call your GP surgery before you go in. They may suggest talking over the phone or arrange for you to come to a part of the surgery where you’re separated from others.”
You should call 999 if you or your child has measles and:
- have a seizure (fit)
- have severe difficulty breathing – you’re gasping, choking or not able to get words out (babies may make grunting noises or their stomach may suck under their ribcage)
- are unable to stay awake – cannot keep their eyes open for more than a few seconds
- suddenly become confused – your child may be very unsettled, behaving differently, or crying non-stop
- your child is limp, floppy or not responding normally – their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head and focus on your face
- have a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it
- have a stiff neck, or find light uncomfortable or painful
