01 Feb 2024 | 10:46 AM UTC
UK: Elevated measles activity reported in England, especially West Midlands, through January /update 1
Elevated measles activity reported in England, UK in January. West Midlands is most affected. Confirm vaccination.
International health officials have reported elevated measles activity in multiple areas in England, with 347 confirmed cases reported Oct. 1, 2023-Jan. 30, 2024. This is compared to 12 confirmed cases reported over a similar period in 2023. West Midlands (260 cases) is most affected, followed by London (46 cases), and Yorkshire and the Humber (24 cases). Local health officials have urged the public to get their measles vaccinations up to date to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 1.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against measles or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Measles vaccination coverage in the UK was estimated at 86.5 percent in 2022, which is well below the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health authorities reported roughly 53 measles cases nationwide in 2022, two cases in 2021, and 95 cases in 2020.
Measles is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms generally include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash that begins on the face and spreads downward. Serious complications - including pneumonia - can occur, especially in children younger than five years old, adults older than 20 years old, and individuals with a weakened immune system.
