Measles outbreak sees 118 new cases in England as worst areas are revealed

A further 118 measles cases have been confirmed in England as health officials warn the risk of further spreading is increasing.

A disproportionately high rate continues to be seen in the West Midlands, with a sharp rise in case numbers over the last six weeks, mainly driven by cases in Birmingham.

The total number of cases confirmed since 1 October 2023 has now risen 465, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.

In England, 17 cases were reported in October, 42 in November, 161 in December, 240 in January 2024 and 5 in February.

Some 71 per cent of these cases have been in the West Midlands, 13 per cent in London and 7 per cent in Yorkshire and The Humber. The remaining cases were reported in other regions of England. Two-thirds of these cases are in children under the age of 10 and a quarter in young people and adults over the age of 15.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist, said: “The measles outbreak in the West Midlands continues to be a concern. MMR vaccine uptake has been falling over the last decade with 1 out of 10 children starting school in England not protected. Measles is highly infectious and there is a real risk it will spread to other areas.

“Parents should be aware that measles is a nasty illness for most children and sadly for some can be very serious and life changing, but it is completely preventable.

“Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your children. I strongly urge parents to take up the offer as soon as possible and protect their child now.”

Officials said the number of cases for the most recent months likely to increase as more suspected cases undergo confirmatory testing.

This story is being updated.