As the summer holiday season approaches, families planning to travel abroad for vacations or to visit relatives are being issued a stark warning regarding the rise in measles cases across Europe and other regions. Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, has made a strong comeback in several parts of the world, putting families at increased risk, especially those who may not be fully vaccinated against the disease.
In Europe, measles infections have surged to a 25-year high, while countries such as Pakistan and Nigeria are also experiencing significant outbreaks. The increase in cases comes amid growing concerns about childhood vaccination rates, particularly the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, which has been shown to offer critical protection against these potentially deadly diseases. In the UK, vaccination rates for the MMR vaccine remain far below the recommended 95% uptake, which is necessary to maintain herd immunity and protect vulnerable populations.
Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) highlights the continued rise in measles cases, with 109 confirmed infections in April alone and 86 more cases reported in May. The majority of these cases have been found among unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under. The impact of these outbreaks has been most noticeable in London, which has reported nearly half of the total cases in the past month.
Dr. Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, has warned that the rise in measles cases in the UK mirrors the global situation, with similar outbreaks occurring across Europe. She stressed that parents planning to travel abroad with their children this summer should take immediate action to ensure their family members are up to date with their MMR vaccinations. “Measles cases are picking up again in England, and outbreaks are happening in Europe and many countries with close links to the UK,” Dr. Saliba said. “It’s essential that everyone, particularly parents of young children, check that all family members are up to date with two MMR doses before traveling.”
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world, and its symptoms can include high fever, sore red eyes, runny nose, coughing, and sneezing. A characteristic blotchy red or brown rash typically appears after a few days, beginning on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body. In some cases, small white spots may even appear inside the mouth. While measles usually resolves within a week to 10 days, the disease can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, and seizures. Tragically, some children can even end up in the hospital with life-threatening consequences.
The rise in measles cases in Europe, particularly in countries popular with UK holidaymakers such as France, Italy, Spain, and Germany, is a worrying trend that underscores the need for vigilance. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, there were a staggering 127,350 reported measles cases in Europe in 2024—a twofold increase from the previous year and the highest number seen since 1997. These figures serve as a stark reminder of how easily preventable diseases can spread when vaccination rates decline.
In addition to Europe, the WHO has reported that countries such as Romania, Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia, and Nigeria are currently experiencing some of the largest outbreaks of measles worldwide. For families planning to travel to these regions, the risk of exposure is significantly heightened. Dr. Saliba’s advice to check vaccination status before travel has become even more pertinent in light of the ongoing global outbreaks.
Despite the serious health risks posed by measles, there is still a significant gap in vaccination coverage across many parts of the UK. Dr. Amanda Doyle, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services at NHS England, has pointed out that many children are still not protected against the disease. “Too many babies and young children are still not protected against the diseases, which are contagious infections that spread very easily and can cause serious health problems,” Dr. Doyle said. She strongly urged parents to act on invitations for vaccination appointments or to check their child’s vaccination records to ensure they are fully protected.
Vaccination rates in the UK have suffered in recent years, particularly as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, which caused disruptions to routine immunization schedules. The UK Health Security Agency has stressed that it is never too late to get vaccinated. Even if a child or adult has missed one or both doses of the MMR vaccine, it is important to catch up as soon as possible to ensure they are fully protected. Anyone who has not yet received two doses of the vaccine can contact their GP surgery to schedule an appointment and help prevent the spread of this highly infectious disease.
Measles may seem like a disease of the past, but it is very much a present-day concern for families traveling abroad. The consequences of contracting measles while on holiday can be far-reaching, especially if a child develops complications or requires medical attention while abroad. Additionally, travel insurance policies may not cover costs associated with the treatment of vaccine-preventable diseases, which could lead to unexpected medical bills for families.
For parents considering international travel, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks associated with traveling to regions with low vaccination coverage or active measles outbreaks. The WHO has identified several countries where measles is circulating widely, and travelers are advised to take extra precautions. For example, countries like Nigeria and Pakistan have seen sharp rises in measles cases, which poses an additional risk for families visiting relatives in these areas.
In terms of the broader picture, the global decline in childhood vaccinations poses a significant public health challenge. According to health experts, measles is just one of many preventable diseases that continue to make a comeback as vaccination rates fall. The UK is not alone in this trend, as other European countries and regions worldwide have also seen reductions in vaccination uptake, putting populations at risk. Measles outbreaks serve as a wake-up call for parents to take action and ensure that their children are vaccinated before embarking on any overseas trips.
While the importance of the MMR vaccine cannot be overstated, it is also critical for families to be informed about the symptoms of measles and what to do if they suspect their child may have contracted the disease. Early recognition and prompt treatment are essential in preventing severe complications. In some cases, measles can cause life-threatening issues such as pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even permanent blindness. Pregnant women who contract measles can face complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery.
In conclusion, as the summer travel season draws near, families planning to travel abroad should take immediate steps to protect themselves and their children from measles. This includes ensuring that everyone in the household is up to date with their MMR vaccinations and making sure that any missed doses are caught up before departure. Measles is a dangerous disease that can spread rapidly, but it is entirely preventable through vaccination. Families must stay informed and take action to safeguard their health, especially when traveling to regions where the disease is prevalent.
For more information on measles vaccination and to schedule an appointment for your child, contact your GP surgery or local health provider. Remember, it’s never too late to get vaccinated and ensure your family stays safe while traveling abroad.
