Parents and carers in south west London are being urged to make catching up on vaccination appointments for their children a priority during the summer holidays.
The request is being made by local GP and chief medical officer Nicola Jones after data revealed continued high levels of measles cases amid fears of a further surge once the new school term begins.
Vaccination is the best protection against measles, which is highly contagious and can cause serious health problems.
Local GP Nicola Jones
The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) monthly update data shows that an additional 145 measles cases have been reported in England since the last publication on July 3.
Cases continue to be predominantly in children under the age of 10, with London and parts of the north west driving the increase most.
Dr Jones said the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) is provided free by the NHS and it is easy to get a jab.
She said: “Vaccination is the best protection against measles, which is highly contagious and can cause serious health problems.
“While the NHS delivered tens of thousands of additional MMR vaccinations last year, too many eligible children remain unvaccinated.
“The summer months offer parents and carers an important opportunity to ensure their children’s vaccinations are up to date, giving them the best possible protection when the new school term begins. It is never too late to catch up.”
The latest measles report on the UKHSA Data Dashboard reports:
- Since 1 January there have been 674 laboratory confirmed measles cases reported in England, an increase of 145 cases since the last report on 03 July 2025.
- 48% (322/674) of these cases have been in London, 16% (111/674) in the North West, and 10% (65/674) in the East of England.
There has also been a global increase in measles cases, including Europe, over the last year. UKHSA is concerned that holiday travel and international visits to see family this summer could lead to rising measles cases in England when the new school term begins.
Around 99% of those who have 2 doses will be protected against measles and rubella. Although mumps protection is slightly lower, cases in vaccinated people are much less severe.
Anyone, whatever age, who has not had two doses can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment.
More information on measles, mumps and rubella can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mmr-for-all-general-leaflet.