
UK loses measles-free status as MMR uptake falters and deaths rise
The World Health Organization no longer classifies the UK as measles-free after rising cases and deaths and declining MMR vaccination coverage; 3,681 measles cases were recorded in 2024, and 20 deaths occurred between 2019 and 2025. Health officials warn that waning vaccine uptake and access barriers threaten herd immunity and urge renewed efforts to boost two-dose MMR coverage toward the 95% target.
