The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning to parents regarding a potential surge in measles cases as the new school year approaches. Parents are being urged to ensure their children are fully vaccinated against diseases such as measles, whooping cough, meningitis, diphtheria, and polio. This six-week campaign is a joint effort by the UKHSA, the Department of Health and Social Care, and NHS England. Concerns have been raised over low uptake of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine in certain areas of England.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, emphasised the importance of vaccination stating, “As a mum and doctor, it is especially tragic to see kids suffering when these diseases are so easily preventable.†She highlighted that two MMR jabs provide the best and safest protection against measles. The surge in measles cases in England in 2023 triggered an MMR catch-up campaign following an outbreak in Birmingham.
Recent data from the UKHSA shows that the NHS has administered 180,000 additional MMR doses in the last 12 months, with over 51,000 doses given to children aged five or under. Despite the progress, Dr Saliba acknowledged that more effort is needed to ensure all children are protected. She also pointed out the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of diseases to vulnerable individuals.
One parent, Davina Barrett, shared her experience when her three-month-old son contracted measles, describing the ordeal as “awful†and highlighting the severity of the illness in young children. The UKHSA reported 2,278 lab-confirmed measles cases in England from the beginning of 2024 up to August 5, with a significant number of cases in London.
National Director for Vaccinations and Screening at NHS England, Steve Russell, stressed the dangers of measles and urged parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated. While progress has been made in vaccinating young children, more efforts are needed to increase vaccination rates.
The warning from health officials underscores the importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks and protecting vulnerable individuals. Parents are encouraged to ensure their children are up to date with their vaccinations to safeguard against preventable diseases like measles.