Health chiefs have declared a national incident over spiralling measles cases, with infections rising at an alarming rate across England. New NHS figures reveal a staggering 3,000% increase in confirmed cases year-on-year, prompting urgent warnings to parents.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed 1,603 suspected cases in 2023 – a dramatic jump from just 735 cases in 2022 and 360 the previous year. The West Midlands remains the epicentre of the outbreak, though cases are emerging nationwide.
Vaccination Rates at Critical Low
Health experts attribute the surge to dangerously low MMR vaccination coverage. Only 84.5% of children in England have received both MMR doses by age five, well below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
"We're seeing communities where protection is far too low," warned UKHSA consultant epidemiologist Dr. Vanessa Saliba. "Measles can cause serious complications, especially in vulnerable groups."
Recognising the Symptoms
Measles typically begins with cold-like symptoms followed by a distinctive rash. Key signs include:
- High fever
- Sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light
- Greyish-white spots in the mouth
- A red-brown blotchy rash that usually starts on the face
The rash often appears several days after initial symptoms and spreads throughout the body.
Urgent Call to Action
NHS national director for vaccinations Steve Russell emphasised: "It's crucial that parents check their children's vaccination status and act immediately if doses have been missed."
The NHS has launched an urgent catch-up campaign, contacting millions of parents and guardians whose children may have missed their MMR jabs.
Health officials stress that it's never too late to vaccinate, with the MMR vaccine available free through GP surgeries for anyone who hasn't received full protection.
