Public health alert as measles cases increase
Health officials have issued a clear reminder to residents of Kent and Medway to ensure they are fully vaccinated against measles following a recent rise in confirmed cases.
Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South East recorded nine new cases across the county since 1 July. While overall case numbers in the region remain lower than some other parts of the country, local health teams say the increase is cause for concern because measles spreads easily among unvaccinated people.
Where cases stand
Official figures for the period 1 January to 6 July show differing levels of confirmed measles across a number of English regions.
| Region | Confirmed cases (to 6 July) |
|---|---|
| South East | 17 |
| London | 463 |
| West Midlands | 147 |
Vaccination rates below target
Public-health teams stress that the most effective protection against measles is the two-dose MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine. Across Kent and Medway, the most recently published figure for five-year-olds having received both MMR doses is just under 83%, compared with the World Health Organization goal of 95%.
“We have seen very low numbers of measles in Kent and Medway this year, however, this recent increase is concerning and does suggest there is some limited transmission in the community, particularly in people who are unvaccinated.”
The quote above is from Dr Rob Verrecchia, consultant in health protection for UKHSA South East. Local NHS leaders have reinforced the message that the vaccine is safe and the best line of defence.
Advice for the public
Health partners — including the UKHSA South East team, local authorities and NHS bodies — are coordinating a response to the cases. They urge anyone who suspects they, or someone in their household, may have measles to seek medical advice promptly and to avoid contact with others while infectious.
- Check your MMR vaccination status with your GP if you are unsure.
- If you suspect measles, seek medical advice and stay away from schools, workplaces and large gatherings while infectious.
- If you or your child have missed the second MMR dose, speak to your GP about arranging vaccination.
Health chiefs say low uptake of the second dose is the main vulnerability: two doses give the best protection against the disease, which can in rare cases lead to serious complications or death.
Officials emphasise staying alert and ensuring children receive both doses of MMR according to the routine schedule. Further updates will be issued if the situation changes or if local control measures are required.
