The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed two deaths linked to measles as the highly contagious virus continues to spread across multiple regions in England. In its latest update, the agency reported that measles activity remains elevated, particularly in London, the East of England, and the West Midlands.
Rising Case Numbers
Since the previous update two weeks ago, an additional 106 laboratory-confirmed measles cases have been recorded in England. This brings the total number of confirmed cases between January 1 and June 8, 2026, to 736. For context, there were 959 cases throughout the entirety of 2025. The surge earlier this year was primarily driven by outbreaks in London and the West Midlands, with the majority of cases occurring in unvaccinated children aged 10 and under.
Deaths Confirmed
The UKHSA confirmed that two children have died from measles in England so far in 2026. Dr. Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, expressed condolences to the families, stating: "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."
Urgent Vaccination Call
Health officials are urging parents to ensure their children are up to date with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) or MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) vaccines. Dr. Saliba emphasized: "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."
Vaccination not only protects individuals but also helps safeguard vulnerable populations, including babies too young to be vaccinated and those with health conditions that prevent vaccination.
Official Response
Health Secretary James Murray commented: "My thoughts are with the families who have suffered such unimaginable loss. 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."
He urged all parents and carers to check their children's vaccination status, adding: "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."
The UKHSA continues to monitor the situation and advises anyone with symptoms or concerns to contact their GP.
