UK Loses Measles-Free Status
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
The World Health Organization (WHO) Europe has confirmed that the UK has lost its ‘measles elimination’ status based on data submitted for 2024. The announcement follows a decade of declining vaccination rates in the UK with coverage for 2 measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) doses in 5-year-olds now at just 83 .7%.
In 2024, 2,911 laboratory confirmed cases of measles cases were reported in England, the highest in decades. Measles activity has been declining since July 2025, but there is a continued risk of further measles outbreaks in areas and communities where vaccine uptake is low.
Because measles is so highly infectious, elimination can only be achieved and sustained when childhood vaccination coverage levels are high, around the WHO 95% target. In order to prevent measles spreading within communities we also need to ensure that older children and adults who missed out when they were younger are caught up.
Regaining measles elimination status and protecting children in the UK from this serious illness will take a concerted effort across the health system to improve vaccine uptake.
From 1 January 2026 the second measles, mumps, rubella and varicella, MMRV, dose is now being offered at a new earlier appointment when all children reach 18 months, which evidence shows can help improve vaccine uptake. This change aims to ensure more children are fully protected before starting school, when they mix with larger groups.
UK Loses Measles-Free Status - created 9th January 2026
