Why is measles on the rise in the UK

Authors: Harris S

DOI: 10.23880/nhij-16000306

Volume 8, Issue 1

Abstract

United Kingdom (UK) headlines have recently reported a rise in measles cases with over 216 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases in the West Midlands as of 18 January. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has declared a national incident, and the agency is currently focusing on limiting further spread of the outbreak. Measles is a highly contagious virus which can lead to serious complications such as pneumonias, encephalitis and in some cases death. It is a virus spread through droplets or airborne transmission with the basic reproduction number (R0) of 12-18, meaning that an infected person would infect 12-18 by Guerra FM, et al. In comparison Sars-Cov-2 has an estimated R0 of 1.5 to 3.5. As a result, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends 95% two dose vaccine coverage of measles to reduce the transmission and provide herd immunity to those who are unable to receive the vaccine. The UK has never met this target.

Keywords:

View PDF