Measles Deaths Reported in England
Two children in England have died from measles this year, as the disease continues to circulate in various parts of the country, according to health officials.
Many of the reported cases have been associated with outbreaks in London and the West Midlands, primarily affecting unvaccinated children aged 10 and under.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that one child died from "acute measles," while another child's death was linked to the "late effects of measles."
So far this year, there have been 736 cases of measles, compared to 959 cases reported for the entire year of 2025, according to the latest figures.
Health Officials Urge Vaccination
Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, emphasized the ongoing risk posed by measles across the country.
"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."
Health Secretary James Murray also commented on the recent deaths.
"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."
Understanding Measles and Vaccination Rates
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads easily among individuals who are not fully vaccinated. While many people recover without severe issues, the disease can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, and, in rare cases, long-term disability or death.
Recent data indicates that 91.8% of five-year-olds in England received one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine during 2024/25. This rate remains unchanged from 2023/24 and is the lowest coverage level since 2010/11.
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