Key Summary
- There have been 674 laboratory-confirmed measles cases reported in England so far this year, and 145 cases since the last report on 3 July
- Children under the age of 10 years are the worst hit, and almost half the cases are in London
- Health experts fear that school reopening after summer break could fuel a fresh surge
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged parents to prioritise vaccine catch-up appointments during the summer break, amid fears of a further surge once the new school term begins.
There have been 674 laboratory-confirmed measles cases reported in England so far this year, and 145 cases since the last report on 3 July.
Almost half of the cases (322) have been in London, 111 in the North West, and 65 in the East of England.
Measles activity has increased since April 2025, and the UKHSA is continuing to oversee the public health risk assessment and working with local partners on the response.
Children under the age of 10 years are the worst hit, with London and parts of the North West driving the caseload.
There has also been a global increase in measles cases, including Europe, over the last year.
UKHSA is concerned that holiday travel and international visits to see family this summer could lead to rising measles cases in England when the new school term begins.
UKHSA consultant epidemiologist Dr Vanessa Saliba said, "The summer months offer parents an important opportunity to ensure their children’s vaccinations are up to date, giving them the best possible protection when the new school term begins."
NHS England National Director for Primary Care and Community Services Dr Amanda Doyle said, "Vaccination is the best protection against measles, which is highly contagious and can cause serious health problems.
"The MMR vaccine is provided free by the NHS, and I would urge all parents to check their child’s vaccination records before the new school year or summer travel, particularly as Europe is reporting the highest number of measles cases in 25 years."
She said the NHS is working with local authorities and the UKHSA to reach more youngsters, and stepped up efforts in areas with higher cases.
The first MMR vaccine is offered to infants when they turn one year old, and the second dose to pre-school children when they are around 3 years and 4 months old.
Those who didn't have these doses, irrespective of age, can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment.
