Measles Outbreak Sparks National Emergency In The United Kingdom.
By Caroline Ameh
The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has officially declared a national incident in response to a significant surge in measles cases across the country.
In a press release, Jenny Harries, the Chief Executive of UKHSA, emphasized the urgent need for immediate action to bolster the uptake of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, particularly in regions with low vaccination rates.
Harries stated, “We need a long-term concerted effort to protect individuals and to prevent large measles outbreaks.”
Measles, known for its high contagiousness, manifests with symptoms such as a rash, high fever, and ear infections in mild cases. However, it can also lead to severe outcomes, including hospitalization and, in rare cases, death. The most vulnerable groups include babies, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
As of January 18, the West Midlands has reported 216 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases since October 1, 2023. Birmingham has seen approximately 80% of the cases, with Coventry accounting for around 10%, predominantly affecting children under 10 years old.
Expressing concern over the situation, Harries warned of a “very real risk” of the virus spreading to other towns and cities due to low vaccine uptake in certain communities.
The latest statistics from UKHSA reveal that the MMR vaccine’s uptake is currently at its lowest level in more than a decade, with only 84.5% of children having received two doses by the age of five during the 2022-23 period
