UK urges MMR vaccination after two child deaths

Health officials have issued an urgent appeal for vaccinations following the deaths of two children from measles in England and a significant surge in cases this year. The UK Health Security Agency confirmed 736 measles cases in the year to June 8, a figure approaching the 959 cases recorded for all of 2025. The agency reported that one child died from acute measles and the other from the late effects of the disease.

The outbreak has been concentrated in several regions, with nearly 20 percent of this year's cases occurring in the West Midlands. Birmingham alone accounted for 79 cases. Over the past month, diagnoses have been highest in London, the East of England, and the West Midlands, including a notable outbreak among adults in Worcestershire. Officials stated that most cases involve unvaccinated children aged 10 and under, though the Worcestershire cluster primarily affected adults.

In response, health authorities are urging parents and adults to ensure they are fully immunized. The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is being emphasized as the best defense against the highly contagious virus. Officials stressed that vaccination not only...