Measles cases are increasing in England, notably in the West Midlands and London. Health officials are urging MMR vaccination as uptake is at its lowest in over a decade. Measles is highly contagious and can lead to severe complications. Vulnerable groups, including babies and those with weakened immune systems, are at risk.
The MMR vaccine is effective, and recent cases are attributed to declining vaccination rates. In 2023, there were 1,603 suspected cases, up from 735 in 2022. The NHS emphasises the importance of vaccination as it prevents millions of cases and deaths.