Measles Cases on the Rise: Health Experts Warn of Summer Outbreaks
A surge in measles cases across Europe and other regions has prompted health experts to issue a warning to families travelling abroad this summer. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), measles infections in Europe have reached a 25-year high, with 127,350 cases reported in the European Region in 2024 – double the number of cases reported during the previous year. This is the highest number since 1997, as reported by the World Health Organization and UNICEF.
The UKHSA has confirmed that an outbreak of measles is continuing in England, with 109 cases confirmed in April and 86 cases reported so far in May. These cases have mostly been in unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under, with London reporting almost half of all cases in the past four weeks. Dr. Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, says the rise in cases in England reflects what is happening abroad – and that’s a concern as the summer holiday season gets going.
“It’s essential that everyone, particularly parents of young children, check all family members are up to date with two MMR doses, especially if you are travelling this summer for holidays or visiting family,” Dr. Saliba said. “Measles cases are picking up again in England and outbreaks are happening in Europe and many countries with close links to the UK.” Measles spreads very easily and can be a nasty disease, leading to complications like ear and chest infections and inflammation of the brain, with some children tragically ending up in hospital and suffering life-long consequences.
The decline in vaccination rates in the UK – particularly since the Covid pandemic – has been mirrored in other countries, especially in Europe. Countries popular with UK holidaymakers, including France, Italy, Spain, and Germany, have all reported measles outbreaks this year. The WHO has also reported that Romania, Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia, and Nigeria currently have among the largest number of measles cases worldwide.
Health experts stress that it is never too late to get vaccinated, and that anyone, whatever their age, who has not had two doses of the MMR vaccine can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment. Dr. Amanda Doyle, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, says there is still a lot of work to do to improve MMR vaccination rates across the UK. “Too many babies and young children are still not protected against the diseases, which are contagious infections that spread very easily and can cause serious health problems,” Dr. Doyle said.
Measles is a highly contagious disease which is spread by coughs and sneezes. Common symptoms include high fever, sore, red and watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, and sneezing. Small white spots may appear inside the mouth, and a blotchy red or brown rash usually appears after a few days, typically on the face and behind the ears, before spreading to the rest of the body. While measles normally clears up within seven to 10 days, it can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, and seizures. Babies and young children, pregnant women, and those with a weakened immune system are at increased risk.
The UKHSA is urging holidaymakers to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations before travelling abroad. With measles cases on the rise, it is essential that families take precautions to protect themselves and their children. As the summer holiday season gets underway, health experts are stressing the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles. By taking the necessary precautions, families can enjoy a safe and healthy holiday, free from the risk of measles.
Source link
