A significant measles outbreak is currently affecting children in north-east London, with more than 60 suspected cases reported across seven schools and a nursery in Enfield, according to health officials.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed the outbreak, stating that the majority of those infected are unvaccinated children under the age of 10. Some children have required hospital treatment as a result of the illness, the UKHSA reported.
Dr. Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, stated, “Our latest data shows we are now seeing a large measles outbreak in north-east London, mostly affecting unvaccinated children under 10 in schools and nurseries, with some being hospitalised.”
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation, and, in rare instances, long-term disability or death. The UKHSA has urged families to ensure their children are fully vaccinated against the disease.
The outbreak in Enfield represents over a third of the 96 total cases confirmed across England in January, according to the UKHSA’s latest data. Enfield Council is working with the UKHSA, the NHS, and local partners to limit the further spread of the virus, in accordance with national public health guidance.
Enfield’s NHS Ordnance Unity Centre For Health has reported infections confirmed in “at least” seven schools in Enfield and neighbouring Haringey. A local GP surgery has reported that one in five children who contracted the illness have been admitted to hospital, all of whom were not fully immunised.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine has been updated to include chickenpox (varicella), becoming the MMRV vaccine. The UKHSA is encouraging parents to check their children’s vaccination records and utilize available catch-up clinics if necessary.
Councillor Alev Cazimoglu of Enfield Council stated that the outbreak has affected children, with some requiring hospital care, and emphasized that vaccination remains the most effective method of protection.
