The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is calling on families to make sure children are protected as the latest data shows continued high levels of measles cases in some parts of the country
This raises fears of further outbreaks and a surge in cases once children return to school.
Regions with the lowest vaccine uptake, including the West Midlands, are of particular concern.
In the West Midlands, the average uptake of two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine by age five is 84.3 per cent, dropping as low as 75.8 per cent in some parts.
This means many thousands of children are unprotected, and the risk of outbreaks remains high.
Katie Spence, UKHSA regional deputy director for the West Midlands, said: “Measles is a nasty virus which spreads very quickly in communities where many children and adults are unvaccinated with MMR, especially in nurseries and schools.
“It can lead to serious health problems, including ear and chest infections, inflammation of the brain, with some children ending up in hospital and being left with permanent disabilities.
“Tragically, in rare cases, it can even be fatal.”
“Please take advantage of the summer break to check your children are up-to-date with all their vaccinations, including MMR.”
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that 95 per cent uptake is needed to stop outbreaks and protect the population.
So far, there have been 674 laboratory confirmed cases of measles in England since January 1, with 34 of these cases (five per cent) in the West Midlands.
The region saw some of the highest rates in the country during measles outbreaks in 2023/24, particularly in areas of low vaccine uptake.
For more information, parents can check their child’s vaccination record via the Red Book, the NHS app, or by contacting their GP surgery.