Written question asked by Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth (Conservative) on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 9 July 2025. It was answered by Baroness Merron (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 July 2025 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Measles

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of made of any increase in measles infections, and what is their response to such an increase.

Answer

In 2024, England recorded 2,911 laboratory confirmed measles cases, the highest annual total since 2012. Approximately 60% of these cases were in children under 10 years old, highlighting a long-term decline in routine childhood vaccination rates.

To address this, a national measles, mumps, and rubella catch-up campaign was launched, delivering an extra 180,000 vaccine doses between September 2023 and April 2024.

Measles cases began to decline from mid-July 2024, although small outbreaks continued in some areas. Since 1 January 2025, 420 laboratory confirmed cases have been reported, with a noticeable rise in activity since April, especially in London.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to work with local and national partners, including NHS England and the Department, to manage outbreaks, improve vaccination coverage, and tailor services to under-vaccinated communities.

You can view the latest data on the Measles Dashboard, which is available in an online only format.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL8812
Session: 2024-26
Subjects: Measles
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Measles

Secondary information

Librarians' tools