Measles Deaths and Rising Cases in England
Two children have died from measles in England, according to health officials, amid data indicating more than 100 new reported cases in the past two weeks.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announced on Thursday that two children had died this year, one from "acute measles" and the other from the "late effects of measles."
A senior public health source noted that this is the first time since 2018 that two children have died from measles in a single year in England and Wales.
Geographical Spread and Case Numbers
UKHSA reported that measles continues to circulate in many parts of the country. The highest number of cases in the last month have been recorded in London, the east of England, and the West Midlands.
Since the previous update two weeks ago, an additional 106 laboratory-confirmed measles cases have been reported in England. This brings the total number of confirmed cases between 1 January and 8 June to 736, compared with 959 cases for the entire year of 2025.
The majority of cases have been among unvaccinated children aged 10 and under, UKHSA stated.
Public Health Response and Vaccination Appeal
Dr Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, expressed condolences to the families affected and emphasized the seriousness of the disease.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with the families who have so tragically lost their children.
Measles continues to circulate in many parts of the country and as we have seen, it can be very serious and even fatal. We urge all parents to ensure their children are up to date with their MMR or MMRV vaccines, giving them the best and safest protection against measles – which can spread very easily.
Anyone who has missed out on their measles vaccines can catch up through their GP practice whatever their age. Getting vaccinated also helps protect babies who are too young to be vaccinated and people unable to have the vaccine due to a health condition. Please don’t delay, and if you or your child are not up to date, book an appointment today.”
Concerns Over Vaccination Rates and NHS Performance
In February, concerns were raised that children were being put at risk of measles because the NHS was "clearly failing" to ensure they received the MMR vaccine.
There have been increasing calls for major reform in the delivery of MMR vaccinations, as vaccination rates in some areas of England have declined to levels comparable to those in Afghanistan and Malawi.
About Measles and Its Risks
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads easily among people who are not fully vaccinated.
While many individuals recover, the disease can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, and, in rare cases, long-term disability or death.
In January, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified the UK as having a high risk of measles outbreaks after vaccination coverage stalled and cases increased.
Latest data indicates that 91.8% of five-year-olds in England received one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine in 2024-25, unchanged from 2023-24 and the lowest level since 2010-11.
Government Statement
Health Secretary James Murray expressed sympathy for the families affected and highlighted the importance of vaccination.
“These deaths are a heartbreaking reminder that measles is not a harmless childhood illness.
Measles can lead to serious complications that can be fatal, and the MMR vaccine, which has saved countless lives, remains the best protection we have against this highly infectious disease.
I urge all parents and carers to check that their children are up to date with their vaccinations as it is never too late to catch up, even if you miss a dose. By ensuring our children are vaccinated, we not only protect them but also help safeguard the most vulnerable in our communities.”
