‘I'm not who I was', says Chris Kamara as he opens up on brutal health battle, family heartbreak and his future on TV
MUCH-LOVED TV presenter Chris Kamara has become a familiar face on our screens for over 20 years - but his whole world was turned upside down after he received a life-changing diagnosis in 2022.
Now the Sky Sports pundit, 67, has spoken in detail about being forced to take a step back from his broadcasting career two years ago after he was diagnosed with apraxia of speech (AOS).
13
13
Apraxia of speech is when a person struggles to speak due to a problem in areas of the brain associated with planned movement. The brain struggles to control the muscles that are used to form words.
Stroke is a common cause, but it may also be caused by a head injury, brain tumours, dementia or progressive neurological disorders. It is not clear what the cause is of Chris' condition.
In an exclusive interview with The Sun, Chris revealed that he travelled to Mexico for treatment in a bid to help reverse and slow down some of the symptoms associated with the condition, including issues with his balance and coordination, related to his battle with dyspraxia.
Although it initially helped, the star admitted it became less effective after three rounds, resulting in him stopping all treatment abroad.
Chris had been to the NeuroCytonix clinic in Monterrey. The treatment involved a machine that used radio frequency and magnetic fields to transmit into the body, similar to an MRI.
The football pundit, also known as Kammy, has now admitted that his family want him to "stop chasing the old him" and to accept his diagnosis.
Chris said: "In so many ways, the diagnosis has changed my life, I am no longer the person I used to be, so I would be lying if I said it hasn't changed me."
The TV presenter, who has been on our screen for over two decades, also said he was fearful of losing his job when he was first diagnosed.
Chris opened up about how he's coping with his condition - but said he wished he had sought medical attention sooner than he did after waiting for 18 months.
Despite having to learn a whole new way of living, Chris does not want his diagnosis to define him or his career and believe he has many more years left on TV after being inundated with job offers.
Chris told The Sun: "I had a great career, hopefully I can continue in some capacity now that my voice and speech has improved. In so many ways [it's changed my life] I am no longer the person I used to be, so I would be lying if I said it hasn't changed me.
Chris Kamara comforted by Susanna Reid as he breaks down in tears on GMB as he discusses apraxia diagnosis
"Of course the old me, as far as my sense of humour and how I converse with people, is still within me, it's just not so easy for me to convey it naturally any more."
Chris, who made a surprise return to punditry on Boxing Day last year, said his retirement is not on the cards yet, despite his speech being "unreliable".
TV CAREER FEARS
The football analyst spent 24 years presenting Soccer Saturday alongside Jeff Stelling but stepped back in 2022 after his diagnosis.
Chris said about the future of his TV career: "I am being offered opportunities all the time, so I can't rule it out.
"Unfortunately, speech is what is needed for presenting, and mine has become unreliable as far as speed goes.
"There has been massive improvements with the clarity of my speech and I no longer struggle to 'find' words, which was a big problem a couple of years ago.
"My family constantly remind that I used to speak at '100 miles an hour' anyway, which is quite unusual, so I should relax into speaking more slowly, which I now do."
He shared his excitement about his recent TV appearance, saying: "Returning to punditry on Boxing Day, working with Jeff Stelling again was so special, something I didn't envisage ever happening again.
"Of course I missed working with him, and on football in particular, but much as I would love to resume or repeat it, I am realistic enough to know it is unlikely to happen again.
"I am still very much in demand, which I find remarkable, and have lots of charity work to keep me occupied, so being scared of retiring is not an option for me – I'll keep going as long as I am needed.
"It feels like I've had several careers, footballer, football management, TV - highlights are many and they will always stay with me."
What is apraxia of speech?
Apraxia of speech is a condition which makes talking difficult, with sufferers knowing what they'd like to say, but having trouble communicating their words.
The NHS says that the condition can be extremely frustrating for people.
They explained: "Frequently the person with apraxia will have difficulties with conversational speech. However they may be good at 'automatic' speech tasks such as counting, swearing, repeating rhymes, greetings and farewell.
It's usually caused by damage to the left side of the brain, such as a stroke.
The condition does not affect a person's understanding and the symptoms of the condition can vary occurring to the severity of the disorder.
The main symptoms are:
being able to say a word correctly one minute and then not the next
difficulty at the beginning of words
greater difficulty with longer words
aware of mistakes but unable to correct them
speaking slowly
being better at 'automatic tasks' such as counting and singing.
He admitted the last few years may have put a pause his TV career, but he has now called on his celebrity pals for a new project.
Chris said: "Whatever I am involved in, I always give it 100 per cent, that is necessary when working alongside such pros as Jeff Stelling and the old Soccer Saturday gang, Ben Shephard and Rochelle, Steph McGovern – maybe a talk show involving all my old pals would work – are you listening Jonathan Ross?"
HEALTH SETBACK
13
13
Despite remaining upbeat and positive, Chris is understandably aware that the condition has completely changed his life.
Known for his humour, quick wit and comedy gold one-liners, Chris said it's not only his speech that's been affected.
The star said his symptoms can present itself with other physical symptoms that can leave him unsteady on his feet.
Opening up about his daily setbacks, Chris said: "Not working as much as I previously did, not being able to exercise as vigorously as I'd like, at the onset I feared working on TV due to not knowing how my voice and speech would be."
The star admitted the most terrifying thing is "how quickly his health will deteriorate and the unknown."
He told us: "Alongside apraxia, and also thyroid problems which have come to light, I am also battling with dyspraxia which affects my co-ordination and balance.
"This can be quite scary, especially since some would say I used to be super fit.
"The brain tells me that I am going to fall, and unfortunately I often do, but in certain situations I panic that this will happen when logically it won't but I don't have the confidence to ignore it - resulting in a few nervy minutes."
Chris admitted he wished he had gone to his GP for help instead of waiting 18 months before seeking help.
FAMILY SUPPORT
13
13
13
The former professional footballer initially didn't tell devoted wife Anne that he was suffering even when she noticed he was having problems with his speech.
But he recalled the moment he was told about his diagnosis, as he heartbreakingly said: "I didn't want to be a burden to my family".
"I was with my wife when I went to see the neurologist and received my diagnosis," he shared.
"I was worried about how my speech and health would decline in the future.
"I was devastated, not knowing what would be in store for the future.
"It initially started with a slow decline in my strength and balance, with the speech suddenly stumbling and not flowing.
"I already knew for too long that something 'not good' was happening with my body, so getting the results was at least an answer to what was going on.
"Almost like I knew I wasn't going to be cured overnight. So my biggest concern was for my family.
"I didn't want to be a burden to them. This stayed with me for a while and I was totally out of order in this respect.
"My family just want to be there for me, as we have always been for one another, nothing has changed."
TREATMENT ABROAD
13
Last year, Chris praised friend and GMB presenter Kate Garraway for urging him to seek "experimental therapy" in Mexico.
Chris visited on three occasions in a bid to help him get back to his old self, but has now revealed that will be his final session.
He said: "I researched treatment for myself in Mexico and have been there three times now but do not intend to continue.
"The improvement first time was very noticeable, not quite as much for the second and third time, so I have come to accept that the person I currently am is me going forward.
"I am currently on no medication, just gentle exercise and regular speech practice.
"My family are happy with me and, judging from the inquires made, I am still in demand and can still put a smile on peoples faces."
NO STOPPING CHRIS
13
Chris' work does not end with his TV appearances, he's increasingly become more hands on with his charity work and raising awareness.
"I am involved with several charities – in Westminster this week, badgering the Health Care Minister, Stephen Kinnock, regarding funding for speech and language therapy," Chris said.
"There are 1.8 million children in the UK suffering with speech defects and currently not enough funds or therapists to help these kids… not to mention the adults.
"I have been involved with Marie Curie for many years and more than happy to raise awareness in this way – it was great fun to be out on the streets, with the generous people of Leeds dipping into their pockets to fill buckets for the Marie Curie Great Daffodil Appeal.
"Such an amazing job the charity does to help with end of life care, I love it."
Chris took to the streets of Leeds as Marie Curie's newest volunteer last month.
He helped to kick off the end of life charity's Great Daffodil Appeal, as he raised money for the month-long fundraiser.
He has been an ambassador for Marie Curie since 2010, passionately supporting the charity's mission after his mother Irene was cared for by the charity after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
Although his diagnosis was something Chris had never envisaged, he is doing his best to remain on top of the situation.
He said: "I have come to terms with my condition and feel I am on the mend or at least happy that I can cope with current health situation.
"I was most concerned with my speech problems, but my family were more concerned with other symptoms which were bothering me, and still are to some extents.
"This would be my balance and coordination – I just have to be careful not to attempt moving suddenly in quick or awkward movements which could result in me losing balance, from which I can no longer recover so easily.
"Yes, it was a scary and emotional journey for me, and my family but we took all the advice offered and have all accepted this is the 'new me'.
"I'm coping very well at the moment. Strength and balance can still cause problems but speech is much improved since two years ago.
"My health has stabilised - or should I say I am no longer waiting for the time I can go back to doing things I used to do.
"I have accepted that I will not be running a marathon any time soon and I can cope with that now.
"I am in a better place mentally now than I have been since the condition was diagnosed.
"I have learned to go with it and accept this new me."
Chris wife Anne Kamara and sons Jack and Ben have stood by his side ever since learning of the news.
The TV star said his family have urged him to "stop chasing the old me," and saying "they love me as I am".
While his therapist shared an important piece of advice with him, which Chris is hoping he can share with others in his situation.
He said: " My therapist Daniel McDermid said 'the day you tell everyone about your condition, is the day you will start to heal' - I should have done this much sooner."
Chris insisted to other suffering with apraxia: " Talk to people, family friends and professionals... unlike me."
NINJA WARRIOR AXE
Chris was also keen to touch on ITV game show Ninja Warrior being axed in 2022.
It launched on ITV in 2015 and Chris hosted alongside Rochelle Humes and Ben Shepherd until the final series in 2021.
It was reported at the time that ITV had been forced to axe Ninja Warrior, as the reboot of Gladiators has smashed it in the ratings.
But Chris has now revealed that the show's cancellation had nothing to do with ratings.
He said: "I am gutted that there are no plans to resurrect Ninja Warrior – it would be so good to hook up with Ben Shephard and Rochelle Humes again, we had a special thing going on, loving every minute of putting the show together.
"Contrary to reports, Ninja Warrior was axed due to high production costs. Such a shame for Ninja Warrior fans."
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Telegraph
6 hours ago
- Telegraph
Why milk, cheese (and even a smidgen of butter) is good for your health
Queue for a coffee in your local café and you'll hear a dizzying array of orders – oat flat whites, almond macchiatos, soya lattes. Increasingly rarely will anyone order a drink made with dairy, which has fallen so far out of fashion that in some circles it's become a dirty word. Since the 1970s, our consumption of cow's milk has halved – from an average of 140 litres per person per year to 70. Today, just under 35 per cent of British households buy plant-based alternatives, according to data firm Kantar, with annual sales of oat milk alone topping £275 million – up from £155 million five years ago. But while vegan alternatives are generally considered better for the environment than cow's milk, is giving up dairy good for our health? The latest research suggests not. A new study from the University of Reading has found that including dairy in your diet may help control blood sugar levels more effectively than a plant-only diet – and could help prevent diabetes. Participants were either vegetarians who included dairy in their diets, or vegans. Blood tests showed the dairy group had higher levels of acetyl carnitine – a compound that helps cells use fat for energy and reduces oxidative stress, the damage that can occur when blood sugar is too high. And this is far from the only benefit. 'Eating dairy is one of the easiest ways to get enough calcium,' says Dr Emily Leeming, a microbiome scientist at King's College London, dietitian and author of Genius Gut. Calcium is vital for bone health, muscle, nerve and heart function – and it's also strongly linked to protection against bowel cancer. The largest study to date on diet and bowel cancer found that people who ate more dairy tended to have a lower risk of developing the disease. 'An extra 300mg of calcium – found in a typical glass of milk – is associated with a 17 per cent lower risk of bowel cancer,' says Dr Leeming. Alongside calcium, 'dairy contains a high level of protein and other important nutrients including vitamin B12, iodine, phosphorus, potassium and riboflavin,' says Laura Southern, founder of London Food Therapy. So what type of dairy should we be going for – and how much? Skip to: Milk Cheese Yogurt Butter Milk can lower your risk of heart disease Many adults today claim to be lactose intolerant – a condition in which the body doesn't produce enough of the enzyme lactase to break down the sugar in cow's milk. It's believed to affect around 15–20 per cent of the population. Cow's milk protein allergy is common in babies – affecting around seven per cent of those under one – but most outgrow it, and in adults it's very rare. For most people, then, choosing a plant-based alternative is a lifestyle decision – but one that could have unintended health consequences. Our declining intake of cow's milk has led to a drop in iodine consumption – a trace mineral that's crucial for thyroid function. A 200ml glass of milk provides around 70mcg of iodine, half the adult recommended daily intake of 140mcg. 'Iodine is quite difficult to find in our diets, but it goes into cattle feed – which means it's in milk,' says Southern. 'We need iodine for our thyroid hormones. Thyroid disorders can cause low energy levels, poor metabolism, fertility problems and issues with foetal development during pregnancy.' Contrary to what many believe, milk isn't likely to make you gain weight or raise your cholesterol. Research from the University of Reading found that milk drinkers had lower cholesterol levels – and a 14 per cent lower risk of coronary heart disease. And semi-skimmed or skimmed options may not be the healthier choice. A 2024 study in the US revealed that drinking whole milk was associated with lower weight, BMI and obesity prevalence. Some plant-based drinks are fortified with calcium, vitamin B12 and iodine – others are not. Organic versions, which are the least processed, cannot legally be fortified. And while some fortified drinks contain added calcium, not all forms are equally well absorbed. The calcium in cow's milk is naturally occurring – and more readily used by the body. 'Cow's milk is a really good package of nutrients in an unprocessed bundle,' says Southern. Eat cheese to ward off dementia Cheese has long been vilified for its high levels of saturated fat and salt – but recent research suggests it offers far greater health benefits than previously assumed. In 2023, a review of dozens of studies by scientists in China and at Harvard University found that eating cheese – around 40g per day – was linked to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and dementia. A possible explanation for its cardiovascular benefits may lie in its fermentation process, says Southern. 'The beneficial microbes break down the lactose – or milk sugar – and the proteins in cheese. Those are the elements that can have an inflammatory effect in the body,' she explains. 'What's left are the health-promoting components.' Bacteria in many cheeses – including Parmesan and cheddar – break down milk proteins into compounds similar to those found in blood pressure drugs known as ACE (angiotensin-converting-enzyme) inhibitors, potentially helping to prevent hypertension. Fermentation also produces vitamin K, which has been shown to slow the build-up of calcium deposits in the arteries and valves of the heart. Camembert and Edam contain the highest levels. A 2023 study of older adults in Japan found that eating cheese was associated with better cognitive function and lower rates of dementia. The cheese-eating group also had slightly lower BMIs and blood pressure – and walked faster. Hard cheeses are particularly rich in calcium. Parmesan contains 19 per cent of the recommended daily amount in just one 30g serving. Official guidance recommends no more than 30g of cheese a day. 'We don't want to eat too much because of its fat content, but I advise clients to measure two fingers' worth of hard cheese, chop it up and sprinkle it into a salad,' says Southern. 'That way you're getting the benefits, plus flavour, protein and satiety.' Vegan alternatives are another matter. 'They're mostly salt and fat and are very highly processed,' says Southern. 'Most varieties aren't health-enhancing – and cheese is notoriously difficult to replicate.' The benefits of the good bacteria in 'live' yoghurt for the gut microbiome are well established – making a daily portion one of the healthiest dairy choices around. 'I often advise clients to start their day with a couple of tablespoons of fermented or Greek yoghurt with seeds,' says Southern. 'It's very satiating, provides a high level of protein and helps keep blood sugar steady throughout the morning.' Several major studies have highlighted further health advantages. The most recent – published in Gut Microbes – showed that long-term consumption of two or more servings of yoghurt per week was linked to lower rates of one type of bowel cancer. Another study, based on data from 5,000 people, found that eating 40g of yoghurt daily lowered the risk of liver cancer by 5.4 per cent. Research from the Medical Research Council's epidemiology unit at the University of Cambridge also found that people who regularly ate natural, unsweetened yoghurt had a 28 per cent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who never consumed it. Still not convinced? A comprehensive 2023 meta-analysis published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, which examined data from almost 900,000 participants, found that higher yogurt intake was significantly associated with a lower risk of death from all causes – and from cardiovascular disease. Dairy-free alternatives generally contain far less calcium, protein and potassium – although some now include added probiotics to support gut health. Butter – stick to small amounts Who doesn't love a slice of hot toast slathered in melting butter? Delicious as it is, butter is high in saturated fat – so 'moderation is key,' says Southern. One analysis, which included data from more than 600,000 people, found that moderate butter consumption wasn't linked to a higher risk of heart disease – and may even offer slight protection against type 2 diabetes. But compared to other forms of dairy, its benefits are limited. 'New research has shown that it's not just the nutrients themselves that affect health – it's how they're packaged within a food, something called the food matrix,' says Dr Leeming. She points to a study comparing the matched nutrients in cheese and butter, which found that cheese lowered levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol – while butter did not. 'It suggests the food matrix plays a role in how our bodies respond,' she says. A major study published earlier this year, involving more than 200,000 people followed over 30 years, found that those who consumed more plant-based oils – particularly olive, rapeseed and soya – had a 17 per cent lower risk of death than those who regularly ate butter. 'We don't need to be frightened of butter,' says Southern. 'Although plant-based spreads are now largely free from unhealthy trans fats, I'd still choose butter for toast or baking. But for cooking, a good quality oil is much better for us.'
The Sun
12 hours ago
- The Sun
New alert as cases of typhoid that kills 1 in 5 hit record high in UK – are you at risk of the Victorian disease?
TYPHOID fever, a disease that notoriously claimed the life of Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, has hit record levels in Britain. With most new cases linked to travellers returning to the UK, health officials are urging Brits to get vaccinated when visiting countries where the disease is rife. 2 Some 702 imported cases of typhoid and paratyphoid fever, deadly bacterial infections that can kill one in five if untreated, were reported in 2024, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This marks an eight per cent increase from 645 cases the previous year, and the highest ever recorded. Typhoid is a bacterial illness that, without swift treatment, can lead to fatal complications such as internal bleeding or ruptured organs. It is caused by salmonella bacteria, typically spread through food or water contaminated with infected urine or faeces. Most British cases are linked to travel to South Asia, including India, Bangladesh, or Pakistan, which has poor sanitation and limited access to clean water Officials have also raised concerns over a troubling rise in antibiotic-resistant typhoid in Pakistan. The mutant strain known as XDR, resistant to standard treatments, has been spreading since 2016, heightening the risk of severe complications. Globally, around a fifth of typhoid cases are fatal, though deaths are less common in countries like the UK. Symptoms of typhoid infection typically appear one to two weeks after exposure. Early signs include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, cough, and constipation. As the illness progresses, symptoms worsen, with nausea, diarrhoea, and occasionally a rash. At this stage, the risk of life-threatening complications increases significantly. With prompt treatment, such as antibiotics, the infection usually resolves within three to five days. While the NHS offers a free typhoid vaccine for travellers to high-risk countries, no vaccine exists for paratyphoid, which is caused by a related but distinct bacteria. "It is important that travellers remain alert and plan ahead of going abroad – even if you're visiting friends and relatives abroad or it's somewhere you visit often," Dr Philip Veal from UKHSA said. He urged people to visit the Government's Travel Health Pro website for information on what vaccines or medications tourists may need before travelling to an overseas destination. Dr Philip added this was especially important for pregnant people or those hoping to have one in the near future as they could be at heightened risk. 2 "If you are pregnant or trying to conceive there are special precautions you should take, so please speak to a healthcare professional before planning your trip," he said. Though most cases are now imported, typhoid was a serious public health crisis in 1800s Britain, claiming around 16,000 lives annually. The disease struck people from all walks of life, from overcrowded slums to royal palaces. Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's husband, succumbed to typhoid fever at just 42 years old. 'Typhoid Mary' This isn't the first time typhoid has long crossed borders. It's most infamous carrier, Irish cook Mary Mallon, infected hundreds when she emigrated to the United States in 1884 and settled in New York. She was detained after unknowingly infecting the American families she cooked for through the food she served them. It was believed she carried the disease silently, with no symptoms, infecting between 51 and 122 people with the disease - three of which died. Dubbed "Typhoid Mary," she spent 26 years in quarantine until her death. The nickname has since become a term for someone who spreads disease or other misfortune. How to avoid typhoid fever To protect yourself from typhoid, make sure to see your GP at least two weeks before travelling to find out if you need a vaccine. Even if you were born or raised in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, or India, or have travelled there before, you may still need a vaccination. The vaccine offers protection for around three years. As there's no vaccine for paratyphoid, be cautious with food and drink. Follow the rule: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it! Eat only freshly prepared, piping hot food, or fruit you've peeled yourself, like bananas or mangoes. Stick to bottled or cooled boiled water, ensuring bottles are sealed or opt for sparkling water to avoid refills. Use bottled or boiled water to brush your teeth, and avoid tap water entirely. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating, drinking, or preparing food, and after using the toilet. Avoid uncooked foods, including: Salads Raw or undercooked shellfish Buffets (unless dishes are steaming hot) Unpasteurised milk and cheese Ice cubes Tap water Ice cream Cold desserts in restaurants Leftovers Taking these precautions can significantly reduce your risk of infection. Source: UKHSA
The Sun
13 hours ago
- The Sun
The 5 holiday hotspots where medieval children's virus is resurging – amid warning to Brits heading abroad
A MEDIEVAL virus that can cause deadly side effects in some children is surging through holiday hotspots, health officials have warned. Almost 1,000 measles cases were reported across 29 European countries in April alone, warned the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). 2 Cases were highest in destinations popular with UK travellers, such as France, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium and Romania. It comes after British health authorities sounded the alarm over a potential surge of measles in England, warning families may bring back the contagious disease after travel abroad this summer. They urged families to make sure their kids are up to date with their vaccines before going on holiday - taking special care they've received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) jab. A dip in childhood vaccinations - including the jab that protects against measles - in England leaves more children at risk of disease, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) explained. "Measles is an acute, highly contagious viral disease capable of causing epidemics," the ECDC wrote in its report. "It is a serious disease that can lead to complications and even death." The infection starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash and white spots in the mouth a few days later. In some cases, the virus can lead to life-threatening complications, like brain inflammation and pneumonia. The best way to protect yourself from getting ill is getting the MMR vaccine. But if you haven't received the jab, it's almost 100 per cent likely you'll get infected if you come in contact with someone with measles, according to the ECDC. In April 2025, 975 measles cases were reported by 18 EU countries, the ECDC said. "The highest case counts were reported by Romania (402), France (186), Netherlands (111), Belgium (100) and Spain (52)," it wrote. The health watchdog noted that case numbers for April were lower than those reported in March - but it said a number of measles outbreaks have been reported in the region in the past year. Countries such as Italy have also seen high case numbers - with 85 reported in March and 36 in April. Between May 2024 and April 2025, 30 European countries reported a total of 22,481 cases of measles. Almost half (44 per cent) occurred in children under the age of five, while 29 per cent occurred in people aged 15 and over. "The highest notification rates were observed in infants under one year of age and children aged one to four years," the ECDC wrote. Health authorities were given information about people's vaccination status for 20,669 cases of the cases reported in the last 12 months. Eighty-five per cent of them occurred in unvaccinated patients and another 9 per cent occurred in people with just one dose of the MMR jab. Among the 7,194 cases reported in children aged one to four, 84 per cent were unvaccinated and 10 per cent had one dose of a measles-containing vaccine. The main symptoms of measles MEASLES is highly contagious and can cause serious problems in some people. The infection usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. The first signs include: Small white spots may then appear inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips. A rash tends to come next. This usually starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body. The spots are sometimes raised and join together to form blotchy patches. They are not normally itchy. The rash looks brown or red on white skin. It may be harder to see on darker skin. Complications are rare, but measles can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, seizures, and sometimes death. Source: NHS The first MMR vaccine is offered to infants when they turn one year old and the second dose to pre-school children when they are around three years and four months old. "Infants under one year are particularly vulnerable to measles and its complications," the ECDC wrote. "They are best protected by a high level of herd immunity." Fourteen deaths as a result of measles were reported to ECDC during the 12-month period - twelve of these in Romania and two in France. There were 127,350 cases of measles in Europe last year, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). This was double the amount reported in 2023 and the highest number since 1997. And UKHSA said that so far this year, outbreaks have been documented in France, Italy, Spain and Germany. The health watchdog said it was "concerned that more outbreaks may occur again on a larger scale this summer as families with unvaccinated children and adults travel to countries where there are outbreaks". "Measles is one of the most highly infectious diseases and spreads rapidly among those who are unvaccinated," it stressed. Since the start of the year, there have been 420 confirmed infections in England, 109 of these in April and 86 in May - though UKHSA said the figures for last month are likely to be an underestimate. Dr Vanessa Saliba, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, issued a warning to Brits for the summer: "It's essential that everyone, particularly parents of young children, check all family members are up to date with 2 MMR doses, especially if you are travelling this summer for holidays or visiting family. "Measles cases are picking up again in England and outbreaks are happening in Europe and many countries with close links to the UK.
