The recent measles outbreak in the UK is a strong reminder of how serious this virus can be, particularly for young people and children. Across the country, more children are being admitted to hospital with measles, and tragically, a child in Liverpool has recently died after contracting the disease. This has left families and health professionals deeply concerned and has highlighted the urgent need to increase protection through vaccination.

The National Surge of Measles

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. Cases have been climbing again in the UK and across Europe, mainly because fewer children are receiving their vaccinations on time. Between January and June 2025, there were 529 confirmed cases in the UK, with more than two-thirds in children under the age of 10.

The problem is partly down to falling vaccination rates. Uptake of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella) is now at its lowest in over a decade. Many teenagers missed doses during the COVID-19 pandemic when routine appointments were disrupted and misinformation about vaccines continues to play a role. Claims linking the MMR vaccine to autism, which have long since been disproven, have left some parents hesitant, particularly in the 10 to 19 age group. This has left thousands of children unprotected, making outbreaks more likely.

Why are we concerned about measles spreading?

Measles spreads more easily than almost any other virus. Some people can’t have the vaccine for medical reasons, and others, such as babies who are too young, rely on the protection of those around them. When fewer children are vaccinated, measles finds it easier to spread through schools, households and communities.

How is measles transmitted and how contagious is it?

Measles spreads through tiny airborne droplets and can linger in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person has left the room. It’s extremely contagious and around 1 in 15 people with measles can become seriously unwell, according to the UK Health Security Agency. After exposure, symptoms typically appear in one to two weeks, though it can take up to three weeks.

How long does measles last and how long are you contagious?

  • Transmission: Measles spreads through tiny airborne droplets released when someone coughs or sneezes. These droplets can remain in the air for up to two hours, so it’s easy to catch without even direct contact. Around 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed will become infected.
  • Incubation: Symptoms usually appear one to two weeks after exposure.
  • Contagious period: People can pass on measles from about four days before the rash appears until about four days afterwards.

Common symptoms include:

  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Rash that starts on the face and spreads downwards
  • Diarrhoea (in some children)

Where can I get a single measles vaccine?

The single measles vaccination is not available on the NHS, as the NHS only offers the combined MMR vaccine. At The Oakley Medical Practice in Sutton Coldfield, we provide safe and reliable protection against measles. While the NHS offers the combined MMR vaccine, we also offer the private single measles vaccine for parents who would prefer this option for their child.

This service is available for both children and adults and is particularly important if:

  • Your child has not received the MMR vaccine.
  • You are planning to travel to areas with rising measles cases.
  • You want added reassurance during local outbreaks.

Our clinic offers easy booking, flexible appointments and expert medical advice from our doctor-led team. With measles cases rising again, it has never been more important to check your child’s vaccination status. Protecting your family doesn’t just shield your child. It also helps protect the wider community, including newborn babies and people with weakened immune systems.

To book a measles vaccination at The Oakley Medical Practice, please visit our website or contact our team directly