England Reports 477 Measles Cases in Early 2026

England has recorded 477 laboratory-confirmed measles cases from January 1 to April 27, 2026, according to the UK Health Security Agency, marking a sharp rise in the highly contagious viral infection and continuing a troubling trend amid declining vaccination rates.

The outbreak has primarily affected children, with about two-thirds of cases, or 317, occurring in those aged 10 and under. Another 28 percent involved people aged 15 and older. Cases climbed steadily through the early months: 106 in January, 142 in February, and 140 in March, before easing slightly to 89 in April, though officials note that figure will likely increase due to reporting delays. In the four weeks ending March 30, 101 new cases were confirmed, with the total probably underestimated.

London has borne the brunt, accounting for 58 percent of cases overall and 66 in the recent four-week period. Enfield reported the highest local total at 98 cases, followed by Birmingham with 74 and Islington with 44. Other London boroughs, including Haringey, Camden, Barnet, and Hackney, have seen notable clusters. Every region of England has logged at least one case this year, with the West Midlands at 23 and the North...