Measles holiday warning as cases rise in Europe 12 hours ago Dominic Hughes Health Correspondent Families travelling abroad this summer on holiday or to visit relatives are being warned about the rise in measles cases in Europe and other regions.
Measles infections in Europe are at a 25-year high, while cases are also surging in countries such as Pakistan and Nigeria.
The UK Health Security Agency is warning holidaymakers to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations and stress that it is never too late to get vaccinated.
“Measles cases are picking up again in England and outbreaks are happening in Europe and many countries with close links to the UK.”
The WHO has also reported that Romania, Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Nigeria currently have among the largest number of measles cases worldwide.
a holiday warning for measles due to an increase in cases in Europe.
A dozen hours ago.
Dominic Hughes.
Health Writer.
Families are being alerted to the increase in measles cases in Europe and other regions if they are going overseas this summer for vacation or to see family.
Measles cases are on the rise in nations like Nigeria and Pakistan, and infections in Europe are at a 25-year high.
London has the lowest regional rates of vaccination, at just over 73 percent. In the UK, childhood vaccination rates against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) remain far below the recommended 95 percent uptake.
In addition to reminding travelers that it is never too late to get vaccinated, the UK Health Security Agency is cautioning them to ensure they are current on their vaccinations.
The measles outbreak in England is still going strong, according to the UKHSA’s most recent data.
In April, about 109 cases were confirmed, and in May, so far, 86. Most of these cases have involved unvaccinated children under the age of ten.
In the last four weeks, London has reported nearly half of all cases.
As the summer holiday season approaches, Dr. Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, says the increase in cases in England is a reflection of what is occurring overseas.
“It’s crucial that everyone, especially parents of small children, make sure all family members have received two MMR doses lately, especially if you are traveling this summer for vacation or visiting relatives,” Dr. Saliba stated.
The number of measles cases in England is increasing once more, and outbreaks are occurring throughout Europe and numerous nations with strong ties to the UK. “.
Dr. Saliba continued, “Measles is a contagious disease that can cause nasty side effects like ear and chest infections and brain inflammation. Some children end up in the hospital and suffer lifelong consequences.”.
It’s not something you want to go through while on vacation, and nobody wants this for their child. “.”.
The number of cases in Europe reached a 25-year high.
Particularly since the Covid pandemic, the UK’s declining vaccination rates have been reflected in other nations, particularly in Europe.
In 2024, the European Region saw 127,350 measles cases, which is double the number recorded the year before and the highest since 1997, according to the World Health Organization and UNICEF.
Outbreaks have been reported this year in a number of other European nations that are well-liked by UK vacationers, such as France, Italy, Spain, and Germany.
According to the WHO, the countries with the highest number of measles cases globally at the moment are Nigeria, Thailand, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, and Romania.
There’s always time.
Dr. Amanda Doyle, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, says there is still more work to be done despite the significant push to increase MMR vaccination rates throughout the UK.
“Too many infants and young children are still unprotected against the diseases, which are highly contagious infections that can lead to major health issues.
The NHS’s routine immunisation programme includes free MMR vaccinations. If parents believe they may have missed their child’s vaccination, I would advise them to check their vaccination records or respond to invitations. “.”.
According to medical professionals, it is never too late to get up to speed and anyone, regardless of age, who has not received two doses of the MMR vaccine can schedule an appointment with their general practitioner’s office.
