This potentially fatal Victorian-era disease could be making a comeback in the UK

Experts have warned that a dangerous outbreak of measles among British children could be on the horizon.

67 cases have already been recorded between January and April 2023, a massive uptick when compared to the 54 cases in the whole of 2022.

Official figures show that vaccination uptake is at a 12-year low and cases of the Victorian-era disease are rising internationally. Only 85% of five-year-olds are fully vaccinated, below the 95% required for herd immunity.

It is believed one of the reasons for the low vaccine uptake is the shortage of healthcare workers, especially health visitors, in the UK.

Measles could 'spread like wild fire' in UK

Prof Helen Bedford, an expert in child public health at University College London, told The Sun:

There is no question, we're going to see a surge of cases if things continue this way.

Alastair Sutcliffe, a professor of general paediatrics at University College London, agreed. He told The Sun:

An outbreak amongst the unvaccinated including deaths is possible, if rapid catch-up vaccination is not brought in.

Read more ⋙ Outbreak of this Victorian-era disease is raising concern

Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at the University of Nottingham, said:

Measles is one of the most, if not the most contagious virus that infects humans, so it can spread like wild fire in groups where there is low levels of immunity.

And, it's never too late to get vaccinated. If your child has missed their vaccinations, they can still get them at any age for free on the NHS.

Symptoms of measles

According to the NHS, measles typically begins with the following cold-like symptoms:

• High temperature
• Runny or blocked nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Red, sore, watery eyes

A few days later, a rash normally appears on the face and body. Finally, some people may also get small white spots inside their cheeks which typically last a few days.

As reported by the World Health Organisation, measles outbreaks can lead to epidemics that result in many deaths. The majority of measles-related deaths are due to rare but serious complications associated with the disease such as blindness, encephalitis, severe diarrhoea and related dehydration, ear infections, or severe respiratory infections like pneumonia.

Read more:

⋙ More Brits are getting this deadly Victorian era disease. Here are some signs to look out for

⋙ This Victorian-era disease is coming back strong. How to spot the signs

Sources used:

The Sun: 'BUG BEAR Major outbreak of highly-contagious and deadly Victorian disease is on the cards, experts warn'

NHS: 'Measles'

World Health Organisation: 'Measles'