June 11, 2026

expert reaction to latest measles figures

Scientists comment on the latest measles figures published by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). 

Prof Helen Bedford, Professor of Child Public Health, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health (GOS ICH), University College London (UCL), said:

“Over the past three years we have seen outbreaks of measles in England, with over 700 cases in the first five months of this year alone. This compares with almost 1000 cases in the whole of 2025. There has been measles cases in all areas, but the largest numbers are in areas with lowest vaccine uptake, particularly in London districts.  

“I am so very sorry to hear that two children have died from measles this year. This underlines how severe measles can be and the importance of vaccination. We are seeing cases of measles all around the country; measles is highly infectious and spreads very quickly and MMR vaccine is the only effective way to stop this spread.  MMR vaccination not only protects individuals but, when enough people are vaccinated it provides protection to others who can’t have the vaccine. This includes babies under 12 months of age, people with health problems or those who are pregnant. This community protection is important as these people are also more likely to be severely ill if they catch measles.”

“It is never too late to be vaccinated, even if vaccines have been missed years ago, it is still possible and important to catch up. Your general practice or health visitor can answer any questions about MMR vaccination. “

Dr Ben Kasstan-Dabush, Assistant Professor of Global Health & Development at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), said:

“Latest UKHSA data shows that the total number of measles cases confirmed between 1 January and 8 June 2026 was 736, compared to 959 cases for the whole of 2025. The data indicates a persistence of under vaccination and risk of measles spread in urban areas like London, which are characterised by extremes of inequality.

“The burden of risk is not equally shared. The immediate priority now is to ensure timely catch-up of under vaccinated children, and that school-age children are brought up to schedule as efficiently as possible with equitable pathways to vaccination through enhanced access. This is essential to avoid outbreaks in schools, and so that children can look forward to their summers free from the risk of being infected – or hospitalised.

“Longer term strategies must explore embedding vaccination in the broader policy changes taking place, such as the Best Start hubs and tackling child poverty strategies, to help attain greater equity in coverage and protection from disease.”

Declared interests

Prof Helen Bedford: “No conflicts of interest”

Dr Ben Kasstan-Dabush: “No declarations.”