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A rapid outbreak of measles has been reported in multiple schools across north London, with health authorities confirming that at least 34 children have been diagnosed with the highly infectious disease. Laboratory tests conducted in January verified these cases specifically in Enfield, according to information provided by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This surge of infections has raised serious concerns among local health officials and medical practitioners.
One local GP surgery noted that about 20% of the affected children required hospital admission, highlighting that none of these patients had been fully immunized against measles. This situation has prompted urgent calls for families to ensure their children receive their vaccinations promptly to reduce the risk of further spread and avoid potentially severe health complications associated with the disease. Enfield’s NHS Ordnance Unity Centre For Health has publicly acknowledged the outbreak, stating that infections have been identified in no fewer than seven schools not only in Enfield but also in the adjoining borough of Haringey.
Local authorities are actively working alongside the UKHSA, the NHS, and community partners to contain the outbreak by following established national public health protocols. Enfield Councillor Alev Cazimoglu remarked on the impact of the outbreak, noting that primarily children have been affected, some of whom necessitated hospital stays for additional care. “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family. We urge everyone who is not fully vaccinated to act now,” she stressed. Dr Vanessa Saliba of the UKHSA reiterated the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing that unvaccinated children under the age of ten in schools and nurseries have been the hardest hit by this “big” outbreak.
Measles, a disease that spreads swiftly through coughs, sneezes, or contact with contaminated surfaces, presents with symptoms such as high fever, red and watery eyes, coughing, sneezing, and often, small white spots inside the mouth. A characteristic red or brown rash usually emerges several days later, starting behind the ears and face before spreading over the body, although it may be less visible on darker skin tones. Despite its severity, measles is preventable through two doses of the MMRV vaccine, which covers measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. Health experts urge those who have missed their vaccinations to catch up immediately, especially with Easter holidays approaching, as measles remains widespread in some countries linked to the UK, with ongoing outbreaks across parts of Europe. Recent figures reveal that only 84.4% of UK children had received both MMR doses by their fifth birthday in 2024-25, falling short of the recommended 95% coverage, contributing to the resurgence of measles that led the World Health Organization to revoke the UK’s measles elimination status earlier this year
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