Healthcare
There has been an outbreak of measles in the UK, with over 96 laboratory-confirmed cases of measles in England between 1 January and 9 February 2026, according to the latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). 64% (61 of 96) of these cases have been in London, and 26% (25 of 96) in the West Midlands; most cases have been in children under 10.
These numbers may change as more suspected cases undergo confirmatory testing.
So what is driving the rise in measles cases?
The main reason for the outbreak is a steady drop in the number of children getting vaccinated. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), a country needs at least 95% of its children to be fully vaccinated to stop measles from spreading. This high level of protection creates a shield for the whole community, known as herd immunity.
However, the UK has fallen well short of this safe target. Recent data shows that only about 84% of five-year-olds in England have received both doses of their vaccine. In some parts of London, where the current outbreak is hitting hardest, the vaccination rate is as low as 58%. As measles is one of the most highly contagious viruses on the planet, this drop in protection gives the disease a very easy way to spread among unprotected children. As a result of these low numbers, the WHO officially declared in January 2026 that the UK had lost its measles-free elimination status.
What symptoms should you look out for???
The symptoms for measles include: cold-like symptoms (cough, runny nose), a high temperature, and red, sore, watery eyes (conjunctivitis), followed by a rash a few days later, according to the NHS.
What are the steps you should take if you discover your child has measles?
If you spot these symptoms, the NHS strongly advises taking the following steps immediately:
- Call for help, do not walk in: Call your GP surgery or dial NHS 111 right away. Do not visit the GP surgery or the A&E department without calling first. Measles spreads incredibly fast, and doctors need to make special arrangements so your child doesn't accidentally infect others in the waiting room.
- Keep them at home: Keep your child away from school or nursery for at least 4 days from the moment the rash first appears.
- Protect the vulnerable: Make sure your child stays far away from babies under 12 months old, pregnant women, and anyone with a weak immune system, as measles can be extremely dangerous for them.
- Focus on rest and relief: Keep your child hydrated with lots of water. You can give them children's paracetamol or ibuprofen (like Calpol) to help lower their fever and make them more comfortable. If their eyes are crusty, gently clean them using cotton wool soaked in warm water.
What is the best way to prevent measles right now?
The most effective way to protect your child is through vaccination. According to the NHS and the UKHSA, receiving two doses of the vaccine gives 99% lifelong protection against measles.
- Get the jab: Children in the UK are routinely offered the vaccine for free on the NHS. (Note: As of January 2026, the NHS introduced the combined MMRV vaccine for 12-month-olds, which safely protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox.
- Check your records: If you are unsure whether your child is fully protected, simply check their "Red Book" (personal child health record) or call your GP surgery to ask.
- It is never too late: Health officials, including the Health Secretary and local public health directors, are urging parents to catch up on missed doses. If you or your older children missed vaccines when younger, you can still catch up on the NHS for free at any age.
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