About our Measles in the UK news
Latest news on measles in the UK, featuring comprehensive coverage of this concerning health issue, its impact on public health and the ongoing efforts to combat its spread.
Measles is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease that has seen a significant resurgence in the UK. According to the latest data, there were 1,603 suspected cases of measles in England and Wales in 2023, a stark increase from 735 in 2022 and 360 in 2021. This concerning rise can be attributed to the low uptake of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which provides protection against measles and other diseases.
NewsNow's dedicated coverage provides in-depth analysis and up-to-the-minute updates on the measles situation in the UK, featuring the latest developments and the actions being taken to address this public health challenge.
One of the primary reasons for the surge in measles cases is the low vaccination rate among children in England. In 2022-23, only 84.5% of children in England received the second dose of the MMR vaccine by the age of five, falling significantly below the recommended 95% target needed to prevent outbreaks. Certain areas, such as London and Birmingham, have even lower vaccination rates, making them particularly vulnerable to the rapid spread of measles.
NewsNow's dedicated feed covers the factors contributing to low vaccination rates and examines the strategies being employed to increase vaccine uptake, as well as analysis on the complexities of the situation and the potential consequences of a measles resurgence.