Measles Outbreak in England: Travel & Vaccination Advice (2026)
- Cases of measles are rising in England, with a significant outbreak concentrated in North London.
- The outbreak is particularly pronounced in the borough of Enfield, where 50 cases have been identified.
- Fortunately, no measles-related deaths have been reported in England in 2026.
Cases of measles are rising in England, with a significant outbreak concentrated in North London. As of , the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed 130 laboratory-confirmed cases of measles across the country since the beginning of the year.
The outbreak is particularly pronounced in the borough of Enfield, where 50 cases have been identified. Neighboring Haringey has reported 10 cases, and Birmingham, in the West Midlands, accounts for 23 cases – representing 18% of the national total. Approximately 68% of all cases reported thus far are located in London.
Fortunately, no measles-related deaths have been reported in England in .
A Resurgence Following Declining Vaccination Rates
The increase in measles cases follows a concerning trend of declining vaccination rates, a pattern observed not only in the UK but globally. Measles cases significantly increased in 2023 and 2024, and this momentum has continued into . The World Health Organization (WHO) has been working with countries worldwide to target individuals who missed routine vaccinations and offer catch-up doses.
The highly contagious nature of measles means that anyone who is not vaccinated is susceptible to infection, and can potentially spread the virus to others upon travel. This is particularly relevant given London’s status as a major international travel hub, receiving over 20 million visitors annually.
School Exclusion Policies and Containment Efforts
In Enfield, local authorities are taking steps to contain the outbreak. Enfield Council has informed parents that unvaccinated pupils identified as close contacts of individuals with measles may be excluded from school for up to 21 days, in accordance with national guidelines. At least 34 children in Enfield have contracted measles this year, with some requiring hospitalization.
Dr. Jo Sauvage, the chief medical officer of North Central London Integrated Care Board, noted that while outbreaks occur periodically, “Certainly in our area we’ve not seen an increase in number of this degree before.” She emphasized that the majority of cases are occurring in schools and nurseries, and that children who are not immunized are particularly vulnerable, sometimes requiring hospital care.
Infections have been confirmed in at least seven schools in Enfield, and Haringey. Health officials are actively working to increase public awareness and knowledge about measles prevention.
Global Context and Travel Recommendations
The situation in England reflects a broader global trend. Measles cases rose significantly in 2023 and 2024, with an estimated 95,000 deaths worldwide in 2024 – almost three times the number reported in 2021 and the highest figure since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. 59 countries reported large or disruptive outbreaks.
The CDC and WHO recommend that all international travelers be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, or the MMRV vaccine, at least two weeks prior to departure. This is crucial, as even vaccinated individuals can be at risk if they haven’t received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine.
Health officials strongly emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles. Parents and guardians are urged to check their children’s vaccination status and ensure they receive the recommended doses of the MMR or MMRV vaccine. Campaigns to provide catch-up vaccinations are currently underway.
Travelers planning to visit areas affected by the outbreak, including North London and Birmingham, are advised to consult with a healthcare professional regarding vaccination options. The UKHSA continues to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed.
The recent increase in cases serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to protect individuals and communities from this highly contagious and potentially serious disease.