"The UK has lost its measles elimination status, the World Health Organization has announced. The move was based on the spread of cases in 2024 when there were 3,600 suspected cases. Elimination status means there is no sustained transmission so this decision was largely expected, given the scale of the outbreaks in 2024. There were more than 1,000 cases last year as well."
"The move is also a reflection of the fact vaccination rates are below the 95% threshold required to achieve herd immunity - when enough people in a community are vaccinated against a disease, making it hard for the pathogen to spread."
"Infections can return quickly when childhood vaccine uptake falls - measles elimination is only possible if all eligible children receive two MMRV doses before school. "The NHS is making vaccination easier, including offering the second MMRV dose earlier at a new 18-month appointment to boost uptake and support elimination goals."
The World Health Organization removed the UK's measles elimination status following widespread transmission in 2024 that included about 3,600 suspected cases and follows more than 1,000 cases the previous year. Elimination status requires no sustained transmission. Vaccination coverage remains below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity, with end-of-2024 uptake around 92% for the first dose and just under 85% for the second. Social distancing during the pandemic had previously reduced transmission and helped regain elimination in 2021. Ongoing measures include offering the second MMRV dose earlier at 18 months and providing catch-up jabs for older children and adults.
Read at www.bbc.com
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