Low vaccination rates have led to measles outbreaks in England.

The number of measles cases across England has surged dramatically, reaching its highest level in 30 years, due to unvaccinated children.

Since October 2023, local authorities in the West Midlands have recorded over 300 cases of measles. In December alone, 50 children were admitted to Birmingham Children's Hospital for treatment. Unvaccinated children were required to self-isolate for up to three weeks.

Experts say this is the largest measles outbreak in the region since 1990 – a consequence of low measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination rates. They are urging parents to ensure their children receive all the necessary early vaccinations to avoid the risk of severe viral infection and transmission to others.

In a letter to parents, Birmingham City Council warned that unvaccinated students would have to self-isolate for 21 days if they came into contact with a source of measles infection. Normally, children receive their first dose of the vaccine at one year old and their second at three years and four months old.

The UK Health Security Agency's (UKHSA) recommendation for a three-week quarantine was first issued in 2019 and subsequently lifted once the pandemic was under control. Concerns about low vaccination rates and a recent surge in cases have led the council to reinstate the policy.

According to the guidelines, children with the disease must stay home from school temporarily and avoid contact with other vulnerable children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. A three-week isolation period will prevent measles outbreaks among children, according to the UKHSA chief medical officer.

Illustration of vaccines to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella. Photo: Gov UK — Illustration of vaccines to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella. Photo: *Gov UK*

The agency said its recommendations were based on "each case individually, following discussions between council and school officials." To prevent a more serious outbreak, at least 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated. However, nationwide, the rate of fully vaccinated 5-year-olds has now fallen to 84.5%, partly due to anti-vaccine organizations.

The warning was issued on January 4th, before schools reopened. Officials said the quarantine would disrupt children's learning, so parents needed to ensure their children received all necessary vaccinations.

Dr. Mary Orhewere, assistant director of the Public Health Council, noted that general practitioners can administer the MMR vaccine catch-up, providing lifelong immunity against the three viruses.

Two doses of the vaccine provide 99% protection against mumps, measles, and rubella. These three diseases can lead to meningitis, hearing loss, and reproductive problems.

Thuc Linh (According to Daily Mail, NY Post )

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