Parents urged to get children vaccinated amid fears of surge in measles as new term begins
The North West - along with London - is driving an increase in the infection with the majority of cases in children under the age of 10.
It comes as a child in Liverpool died with measles in July. Reports at the time suggested the youngster had the illness alongside other health problems and was receiving treatment at Alder Hey Children's Hospital.
The latest monthly UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data on measles show there have been 145 cases since the last report on 3 July.
This brings the total since 1 January to 674 cases.
According to figures, almost half (48%) of those have been in London, with 16% in the North West and 10% in the East of England.
It follows a global surge in measles over the last year.
The UKHSA is concerned travel during the summer holidays could lead to rising cases in England when the new school term begins.
Measles is highly infectious and can lead to serious complications.
People with the infection have a number of cold and flu-like symptoms, with a rash appearing a few days later.
On rare occasions, measles can also lead to meningitis and brain swelling, which can cause long-term disabilities or even death.
The first dose of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is offered to babies when they turn one, with the second dose offered around the age of three years and four months.
Figures shows 91.9% of five-year-olds had received one dose of the MMR, the lowest level since 2010/11, while just 83.9% had received both doses, the lowest since 2009/10.
Uptake of the first MMR dose at 24 months stood at 88.9% in 2023/24 – again, the lowest since 2009/10.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA consultant epidemiologist, said: 'The summer months offer parents an important opportunity to ensure their children's vaccinations are up to date, giving them the best possible protection when the new school term begins.
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