The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that unless MMR vaccination rates improve, London could see a measles outbreak with tens of thousands of cases.
The UKHSA has stated that risk of measles outside of London is low, but there could be smaller outbreaks in specific populations including teenagers, young people and under vaccinated communities.
Those without an MMR vaccine are at risk. Those who have missed out, and anyone of any age who is unvaccinated are urged to come forward.
Those most at risk are 19 to 25 years old, who were affected by unfounded stories about vaccinations in the early 2000s.
The NHS has launched a campaign to encourage people to check their vaccination status, with targeted outreach to groups in London.
Between 1 January and 30 June this year there have been 128 cases of measles, compared to 54 cases in the whole of 2022, with 66 per cent of the cases detected in London.
The UKHSA modelling has found that the risk of a measles epidemic across the UK is considered low. However, with lower current levels of coverage in London, a measles outbreak of between 40,000 and 160,000 cases could occur in the capital.
There is also a high risk of cases linked to overseas travel leading to outbreaks in specific population groups such as young people and under-vaccinated communities.
The risk in London is primarily due to low vaccination rates over several years, further impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in some areas and groups where coverage of the first MMR dose at 2 years of age is as low as 69.5 per cent.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist said: "Measles can be a serious infection that can lead to complications especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems. Due to longstanding sub-optimal vaccine uptake there is now a very real risk of seeing big outbreaks in London.
"Measles spreads very easily but is preventable. To help protect ourselves, our families and those around us it is vital we all ensure we are vaccinated with 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, free on the NHS whatever your age. Parents can check their children’s red book to see if they are up to date or if you’re not sure anyone can call their GP practice. It’s important everyone is fully vaccinated before travelling overseas this summer.
"Nobody wants to see their child or loved ones sick with measles, or put others who are more vulnerable, like babies, at risk. I urge those who have missed their MMR vaccines to catch-up now."
Image by Angelo Esslinger from Pixabay
