APPROXIMATELY one million families are being encouraged to protect their children against the spread of measles with new four-in-one vaccination drive by NHS England.
Spread of Measles in the UK
Measles remains a significant global threat because of its highly transmissible nature and ability to cause long-term health complications.
The UK Health Security Agency confirmed over 800 cases of measles and two deaths in the first half of 2026 in comparison to 2025 where a total 959 measles cases were reported for the whole year.
Further data from the UK Health Security Agency identified cases of measles in every region of the UK and revealed a gap in vaccine coverage of 7.5% between the least and most deprived areas of the UK.
In January of this year the WHO rescinded the UK’s measles elimination status as the vaccination rate for both measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) doses at age five years dropped below the WHO’s 95% target to 84.1%.
These figures highlight the importance of reducing transmission and preventing further outbreaks.
Vaccination Drive
As part NHS’s new campaign, children aged 12 months to 11 years who have missed one or both measles vaccination doses are being included as part of the initiative running until March next year. Parents of those aged 6 and under are being contacted by their GP and those aged six to 11 are being invited through the NHS app, email or SMS.
The campaign uses the new four-in-one MMR/V vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox (Varicella).
NHS Director of Vaccination Caroline Temmink said: “Measles can be devastating for families, with sometimes tragic consequences, which is why we’re reaching out to parents to help them protect their children.”.
“These childhood illnesses are serious and some of them in rare cases can be fatal, but they are entirely preventable.”.
“This is why GPs based in the communities they know so well are contacting families to help overcome any barriers to getting children the protection they need.”.
“If you are invited to catch up on your child’s vaccinations, please come forward and take up this crucial offer.”.
This drive marks an important step in increasing vaccination uptake to reduce the spread of measles and protect children and families from its serious consequences.
References
Au S et al. Measles: an updated literature review of the host response, pathogenesis, complications, prevention measures, and recent outbreaks. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2026;48(2):206.
National Health Service (NHS) England. Around a million parents urged to book new ‘four-in-one’ NHS jab to protect young children against measles. 2026. Available at: https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/07/million-parents-book-new-four-in-one-nhs-jab-protect-children-against-measles/. Last accessed: 13 July 2026.
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