Two children have died from measles in England in 2026, one due to acute measles and the other from late effects of the disease, officials confirmed [1, 2].
Between January 1 and June 8, laboratory-confirmed measles cases in England totaled 736, nearing last year’s full total of 959 cases [1, 2]. In the two weeks leading up to June 8, 106 new cases were reported [1, 2].
Measles continues to circulate widely, with the highest incidence over the past month reported in London, the East of England, and the West Midlands [1, 2]. Most infections this year have affected unvaccinated children aged 10 and under [1, 2].
Health officials emphasized the importance of vaccination. Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), expressed condolences to the families who lost children and urged, "We urge all parents to ensure their children are up to date with their MMR or MMRV vaccines, giving them the best and safest protection against measles – which can spread very easily. Anyone who has missed out on their measles vaccines can catch up through their GP practice, whatever their age" [1].
In February 2026, MPs and health experts criticized the NHS for failing to ensure children received the MMR vaccine, putting them at risk of infection [1]. Health Secretary James Murray warned, "Measles can lead to serious complications that can be fatal, and the MMR vaccine, which has saved countless lives, remains the best protection we have against this highly infectious disease" [2].
The UKHSA continues to monitor the outbreak, urging parents to vaccinate children promptly to help control the spread and prevent further deaths [1, 2].
