Big measles outbreak affecting London children under 10
The UK Health Safety Agency has confirmed that a “major measles outbreak” in parts of London has affected unvaccinated children under 10.
It was stated that the epidemic that occurred in schools and nurseries in Northeast London caused some children to need hospital treatment.
The agency previously reported 34 laboratory-confirmed cases of measles in Enfield from Jan. 1 to Feb. 9.
More than 60 suspected cases of measles have been reported at seven schools and a nursery in Enfield, the Sunday Times reported.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can spread very easily among people who are not fully vaccinated.
Although many people recover, the disease can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and in rare cases, long-term disability or death.
UK Health Security Agency consultant epidemiologist Dr. “Measles is a nasty disease for any child, but for some it can lead to long-term complications and tragic death, but it can be prevented very easily with two doses of the MMRV vaccine,” said Vanessa Saliba.
“If your child has missed any of their doses, it is important that they catch up as soon as possible, as this will give them vital protection against this highly contagious disease, whilst also helping to protect more vulnerable children around them who are very young or cannot be vaccinated due to their health condition.”
With the Easter holidays fast approaching, he said it was a timely reminder for families traveling abroad to ensure all family members, especially children, were vaccinated.
Global health officials said earlier this year that the UK was no longer considered to have eliminated measles.
Figures published by the UK Health Security Agency last August showed that just 64.3 per cent of five-year-olds in Enfield had received both doses of the MMR vaccine in 2024/25; This is one of the lowest rates in the country.
Enfield Council said it was working closely with the UK Health Security Agency, the NHS and local partners to respond to the confirmed measles outbreak in the borough.
There is no cure for measles, only the vaccine that prevents catching it, which is part of the measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (chickenpox) MMRV injection.
Two doses of the measles vaccine provide a high level of protection and help prevent further outbreaks.
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