Worcestershire residents urged to get MMR vaccine amid rise in measles cases
The West Midlands has seen an increase in measles cases affecting both children and adults
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging people in Worcestershire and across the West Midlands to ensure they are vaccinated against measles as new data highlights an increase in cases in the region.
The health agency has also confirmed two children in England have died from measles this year.
The latest measles figures were released today (June 11), revealing that England has seen 736 confirmed cases from 1st January to 8th June 2026, including a significant concentration in the West Midlands, which accounted for 18% of the total cases.
The have been 16 reported cases in Worcestershire in the four weeks, from 11th May to 8th June, with the majority of these cases being in adults rather than children.
There has also been a significant amount of cases in school-aged children in the Birmingham are.
The UKHSA say measles activity increased earlier this year, mainly due to outbreaks in London and the West Midlands, with the majority of cases in unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under.
mma Booth, Consultant in Health Protection leading on vaccine preventable diseases for UKHSA in the West Midlands, said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with the families who have so tragically lost their children. Measles continues to circulate in the West Midlands region, as in many parts of the country, and as we have seen, it can be very serious and even fatal.
“While many cases are in school-aged children, we are now seeing a significant number of adults catching measles in the West Midlands, especially in the Worcestershire area. That’s why we want to remind people that measles doesn’t just affect children, anyone unvaccinated is at risk. We’re urging anyone who hasn’t had two doses of the MMR vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
“Measles can spread quickly in unvaccinated communities, and can cause serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. The MMR vaccine is the best way to protect families from measles, mumps and rubella. It’s safe, free of charge and can be given at any age.
“We encourage people to check that they and their family members have had two doses of MMR, and to contact their GP surgery if they are unsure, or to book an appointment for any doses missed.”
Early symptoms of measles include a high temperature, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and sore eyes, followed by a rash that could spread across the body.
People who suspect they may have measles are being advised by health officials to contact NHS 111 or their GP before attending a surgery or hospital and to stay isolated for at least four days after symptoms appear.