Officials have said that 10 per cent of reported cases are from north-west England
Brits are being urged to ensure they are up to date with their measles vaccinations as UK cases continue to rise(Image: Getty Images)
People are being encouraged to make sure they have their measles vaccinations following the death of an adult in the UK.
According to the NHS, the infection spreads very easily and can cause serious problems in some people. It usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.
There have been 883 confirmed measles cases reported in England from the start of the year to July 6, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said. Throughout the whole of 2025, there were a total of 959 confirmed cases.
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In June, health officials announced that two children in England had died from measles. And now officials have reported that an adult with an “underlying immunological problem” has also died.
The UKHSA said all regions of England have reported cases, with more than half (52%) in London, 17 per cent in the West Midlands and 10 per cent in the north west. The organisation said the “majority” of cases were in children aged 10 and under.
One adult has died in relation to measles, the UKHSA has confirmed(Image: Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF)
Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said: “Sadly, a third measles-related death has now been reported in England this year. We are continuing to see localised outbreaks in London and other parts of the country.
“Measles is highly infectious and the virus will seek out those who are unprotected. Two doses of the MMRV or MMR vaccine provide vital protection. Vaccination also helps protect those most at risk, including babies, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
“If you or your child have missed any vaccinations, or you are unsure if you are up to date, contact your GP surgery. It is never too late to catch up.”
It comes after NHS leaders launched a catch-up campaign aimed at parents of children aged two to 11 who have missed out on the MMR vaccine which protects against measles, mumps and rubella.
The jab now also protects against chicken pox and is known as the MMR/V vaccine. Health officials are aiming to contact around a million families of children who have missed one or both doses of the vaccine.
Figures for the first three months of the year show that 84.1 per cent of five-year-olds had received both doses of the MMR vaccine. GPs will contact parents of children under the age of six. Those with children aged six to 11 will be contacted through the NHS app, text, email or letter.
Earlier this year, the World Health Organisation said the UK was no longer considered to have eliminated measles. The announcement in January followed a plateau in vaccination coverage and a surge in cases.