Health Experts Warn of Rising Measles Cases in Europe

Families going abroad for holidays or to visit relatives this summer are being cautioned about a surge in measles incidents across Europe and other regions.

Recent data indicates that measles cases in Europe have reached a 25-year peak, alongside rising reports from countries like Pakistan and Nigeria.

In the UK, vaccination rates for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine remain below the recommended 95% threshold, with London exhibiting the lowest rate at just over 73% of children vaccinated.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) emphasizes the importance of ensuring vaccinations are current, noting that it’s never too late to get vaccinated.

A recent update from the UKHSA reveals that England is experiencing an ongoing outbreak of measles, with 109 cases confirmed in April and an additional 86 in May. Most cases involved unvaccinated children under 10 years old, and almost half of these were reported in London.

Dr. Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist with the UKHSA, highlights that the increase in cases in England aligns with trends seen abroad. She expresses concern as summer travel approaches.

“It’s crucial for parents, especially those with young children, to ensure that everyone is up to date on their MMR vaccinations, particularly if traveling this summer,” Dr. Saliba emphasizes.

She also points out the troubling nature of measles, which can result in complications like ear infections, pneumonia, and in some cases, severe brain inflammation—manifesting into long-term health issues.

“No one wants that for their child, and definitely not while on holiday,” she added.

Measles Cases Reach a Historic High in Europe

The decline in vaccination rates within the UK—a trend that has intensified since the Covid pandemic—has been observed in several European nations as well. The World Health Organization and UNICEF documented 127,350 measles cases in Europe in 2024 — double the amount seen the previous year and the highest since 1997.

This year has also seen outbreaks in countries popular among UK tourists, including France, Italy, Spain, and Germany. Additionally, the WHO reports that countries like Romania, Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia, and Nigeria are experiencing some of the highest measles rates globally.

It’s Never Too Late to Vaccinate

Efforts are being made to boost MMR vaccination rates across the UK, though Dr. Amanda Doyle, a national director for NHS England, acknowledges there’s still considerable work ahead.

“Many babies and young children remain unprotected against these easily spread diseases, which can lead to serious health issues,” she remarks.

She encourages parents to act on vaccination invitations or verify their child’s vaccination records if they suspect they may have missed an appointment. The MMR vaccine is provided free of charge as part of the NHS routine immunization program.

Health professionals assert that anyone who hasn’t had two doses of the MMR vaccine, regardless of age, should reach out to their GP to schedule an appointment. It’s always possible to catch up on vaccinations.

Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Risks

Measles is a highly contagious disease transmitted through coughs and sneezes.

Common symptoms include:

• High fever
• Sore, red, and watery eyes
• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Sneezing

Small white spots may appear inside the mouth, and a blotchy red or brown rash typically arises a few days later, beginning on the face and behind the ears before spreading.

While measles generally resolves within a week to ten days, it can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, and seizures.

Particularly vulnerable groups include babies, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Contracting measles during pregnancy can lead to stillbirths or low birth weight, although fatalities are rare.