UK loses WHO status as measles-free after rise in deaths and fall in jab uptake
UN health body says Britain is one of six countries in Europe and central Asia where disease has become re-established
TL;DR
- The UK has lost its measles-free status as confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO).
- This reclassification is due to a rise in measles cases, outbreaks, and deaths, coupled with a significant fall in MMR vaccination uptake.
- Recent data shows a decline in the proportion of children receiving the first and second MMR doses.
- Experts attribute the decline in vaccination coverage to vaccine hesitancy and challenges in accessing appointments.
- The WHO is calling for renewed efforts to boost vaccination rates and close immunity gaps to re-establish measles elimination.
- The UK is now grouped with five other European and Central Asian countries that are no longer measles-free.