An urgent alert has been issued by a health organization regarding a highly contagious infectious disease that is spreading rapidly. The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that measles, which is more infectious than common cold and even COVID-19, poses a significant risk to public health.
The UKHSA emphasized the importance of measles vaccination for both individuals and children due to the ease of transmission and potential severe complications associated with the disease, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and seizures. Measles is described as nearly twice as contagious as the common cold, requiring more than just basic hygiene practices to prevent its spread.
Comparing the contagiousness of measles to other respiratory infections, the UKHSA highlighted the need for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination to protect against the disease. The agency stressed that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide lifelong immunity and reduce the risk of measles transmission.
Measles cases in England have surged to a level not seen in over a decade, with 2,911 confirmed cases reported in 2024, the highest annual total since 2012. As of this year, 742 laboratory-confirmed measles cases have been recorded in England, with a noticeable increase in cases since July 31, 2025, particularly affecting London and the North West regions.
The majority of measles cases in 2025, about 70%, have occurred in children under 10 years old, while 24% have affected young people and adults aged 15 and older. Common symptoms of measles include high fever, coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, and a characteristic rash that appears after initial symptoms.
Measles can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, and seizures, underscoring the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if measles is suspected. The UKHSA reiterated the urgency of vaccination to curb the spread of measles and protect public health.