Global measles surge prompts renewed vaccination warning for travellers

Measles outbreaks are continuing worldwide, prompting renewed advice for travellers to check their vaccination status before going abroad.

Health authorities warn that measles remains one of the most contagious human viruses and can lead to serious complications or death. In 2024, an estimated 95,000 people died from measles globally, with 59 countries reporting large or disruptive outbreaks, nearly three times the number recorded in 2021 and the highest level since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Cases have also risen across Europe and Central Asia in the past two years.

Falling vaccine uptake during the pandemic has left immunity gaps, particularly among children. Although cases surged in 2023 and 2024, including in the UK, vaccination rates in many countries have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels, increasing the risk of further outbreaks.

Because measles spreads so easily, unvaccinated travellers can become infected abroad and bring the virus home. UK residents planning overseas trips are being urged to ensure they have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) or measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV). The MMR vaccine is available free on the National Health Service (NHS) at any age.

Since 1 January 2026, the UK routine childhood programme includes the combined MMRV vaccine at 12 and 18 months, adding protection against varicella, or chickenpox. MMR remains available for adults and older children who missed vaccination.

Infants travelling to high-risk areas may be offered early doses, though additional routine doses are still required later for full protection. Health professionals are reminded that measles is a notifiable disease and suspected cases must be reported.