The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has raised alarm over measles outbreak in the country, adding that unless MMR vaccination rates improve, London could witness tens of thousands of cases.
According to the statement published by the Agency on Friday stated that those who have never received a measles vaccine (MMR) are at a higher risk.
Saying MMR is part of the NHS Routine Childhood Immunisation Programme. “Parents whose infants missed out, or anyone of any age unvaccinated, are urged to come forward.
“Outside London the risk of large measles outbreaks is low but we could see smaller outbreaks in specific populations, including teenagers, young people and under vaccinated communities.
“Susceptibility is particularly high among 19 to 25 year olds, affected by unfounded stories in the early 2000s (‘Wakefield cohorts’) and some may still not be fully vaccinated”, the Agency said.
It said further that data published today by the UK Health Security Agency UKHSA shows there has been a steady rise in measles cases this year. “A new risk assessment also reveals the potential for a measles resurgence, particularly in London.
“Between 1 January and 30 June this year there have been 128 cases of measles, compared to 54 cases in the whole of 2022, with 66 per cent of the cases detected in London although cases have been seen in all regions”, the Agency revealed.
The UKHSA assessment finds the risk of a measles epidemic across the UK is considered low. However, with lower current levels of coverage in London, a measles outbreak of between 40,000 and 160,000 cases could occur in the capital.
The assessment also concludes that there is a high risk of cases linked to overseas travel leading to outbreaks in specific population groups such as young people and under-vaccinated communities.
The risk in London is primarily due to low vaccination rates over several years, further impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in some areas and groups where coverage of the first MMR dose at 2 years of age is as low as 69.5%.
Parents should check their children are fully vaccinated with 2 MMR doses, which gives 99% life-long protection, by checking their red book or with their GP practice, which younger and older adults can also do. Anyone not up-to-date should make an appointment as soon as possible.
Achieving high vaccination coverage across the population, ‘herd immunity’, is important as it indirectly helps protect very young infants (under one) and other vulnerable groups.
It’s vital all children and adults catch up on any missed vaccinations and this is especially important if travelling overseas this summer.
Regional Chief Nurse for the NHS in London, Jane Clegg said, Measles can easily spread between unvaccinated people and can be serious.
“But it is preventable, which is why we continue to encourage Londoners to take up the vaccine, with GPs calling over 10,000 parents of unvaccinated children, and hundreds booking appointments to get vaccinated as a result.
“Cases of measles in the capital remain low but it’s really important that people check that they, and their children, are up to date with their jabs and protected against MMR
“And if you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with your GP practice or local pharmacist for advice. Now’s the time to act to protect yourself and loved ones from measles, the Chief Nurse added.
Current MMR vaccine coverage in the NHS routine childhood programme is the lowest it has been in a decade. The WHO 95% vaccine coverage target is set to prevent outbreaks among populations.
In England coverage of 2 MMR doses at age 5 years is around 85%, with about 10% of children in the country left unprotected from measles by the time they are ready to start school, with the rate in London at about 20%.