"A big measles outbreak in north-east London is affecting unvaccinated children under the age of 10, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed. UKHSA previously reported 34 laboratory-confirmed measles cases among children who attend schools and nurseries in Enfield from 1 January to 9 February, with some requiring hospital treatment. Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can spread very easily among people who are not fully vaccinated."
"Our latest data shows we are now seeing a big measles outbreak in north-east London, mostly affecting unvaccinated children under 10 in schools and nurseries, with some being hospitalised. Measles is a nasty illness for any child but for some it can lead to long-term complications and, tragically, death, but [it] is so easily preventable with two doses of the MMRV vaccine."
"With Easter holidays fast approaching, it is a timely reminder to families travelling overseas to ensure all family members, especially children, are vaccinated, as measles is widespread in some countries with close links to the UK and there are ongoing outbreaks in parts of Europe. Global health officials announced earlier this year that the UK was no longer considered to have eliminated measles after reporting almost 4,000 infections since 2024."
An outbreak of measles in north-east London is primarily affecting unvaccinated children under ten in schools and nurseries, with some cases requiring hospital treatment. UKHSA recorded 34 laboratory-confirmed cases in Enfield between 1 January and 9 February. Measles is highly infectious and can cause pneumonia, brain inflammation, long-term disability, or death in rare cases. The MMRV vaccine, which adds varicella to the MMR, prevents measles when two doses are given. National two-dose MMRV uptake has fallen to about 84% by age five, below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. Families are urged to check vaccination status before travel.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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