118 Measles Cases Confirmed in England Last Week

Numerous countries are reporting measles cases as the global resurgence extends into 2024.

For example, there has been a  measles outbreak in England.

The U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) today announced that 118 laboratory-confirmed measles cases were confirmed in England last week, bringing the total number of measles cases to 465 since October 2023.

Of these cases, 71% (329 of 465) have been reported in the West Midlands, 13% in London, and 7% in Yorkshire and The Humber. The remaining cases were reported in other regions of England.

The majority (66%) of these cases are in unvaccinated children under the age of 10.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist, stated in a press release on February 8, 2024, "MMR vaccine uptake has been falling over the last decade with 10% of children starting school in England not protected."

"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."

"I strongly urge parents to take up the offer as soon as possible and protect their child now."

According to the U.S. CDC, measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.

All international travelers, including young children, should be fully vaccinated against measles, as infected people can spread measles up to four days before and after a rash. 

Worldwide, there was a 64% increase in measles cases in 2023 compared to 2022. 

As of 2024, the CDC maintains a global Watch-Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions, Travel Health Notice, identifying measles outbreaks in 47 countries.