Alert over adult measles cases in Worcestershire

The majority of the 16 measles cases recorded in Worcestershire in the last month were in adults, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) which has issued advice amid a spike in cases across England.

According to data collected between 11 May and 8 June, the entire West Midlands region has accounted for 18% of cases in England, with 11% of cases in Birmingham.

So far in 2026, England has registered two deaths to children as a result of measles, and in the last two weeks a further 106 laboratories across the country have confirmed measles cases.

The findings have sparked a call by the UKHSA for people to get themselves and their children protected against measles.

Measles activity increased earlier this year, with the majority of cases in unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under.

London, the East of England and the West Midlands have the highest number of cases nationally.

But while the majority of cases in Birmingham are being seen in school-aged children, the cases in Worcestershire have affected mainly adults.

Emma Booth, UKHSA's lead on vaccine preventable diseases in the West Midlands, said: "Measles continues to circulate in the West Midlands region, as in many parts of the country, and as we have seen, it can be very serious and even fatal.

"While many cases are in school-aged children, we are now seeing a significant number of adults catching measles in the West Midlands, especially in the Worcestershire area.

"That's why we want to remind people that measles doesn't just affect children, anyone unvaccinated is at risk.

"We're urging anyone who hasn't had two doses of the MMR vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

"Measles can spread quickly in unvaccinated communities, and can cause serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

"The MMR vaccine is the best way to protect families from measles, mumps and rubella. It's safe, free of charge and can be given at any age.

"We encourage people to check that they and their family members have had two doses of MMR, and to contact their GP surgery if they are unsure, or to book an appointment for any doses missed."

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