Measles cases continue to rise sharply in the London Borough of Enfield, driven in part by low MMR vaccination rates. The UK also recently lost its WHO measles-free status following a rise in deaths from measles, and a fall in the proportion of children having the MMR vaccine in recent years.
Malcolm Harrison, Chief Executive of the Company Chemists’ Association said:
“Community pharmacies are ready to act now to boost MMRV uptake, offer a catch-up service, and help to stop measles spreading further.
Pharmacies offer fast, convenient access to catch-up vaccinations close to home.
With more pharmacies in more deprived communities, highly trained teams skilled in administering vaccines and addressing concerns, pharmacies are well placed to reach those most at risk and build vaccine confidence.
To support national efforts the government should make pharmacy-based MMRV vaccination a routine part of the NHS programme, giving the public greater choice while also helping prevent future outbreaks”.
Notes to editors
Measles
- The UK achieved measles elimination in 2016, but lost this status in 2018. In 2021, the UK regained its measles-elimination status but lost it again in 2025. See UK measles and rubella elimination indicators and status
- The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that England is at risk of further measles outbreaks due to falling coverage of the two-dose MMR vaccine.
- In 2024–2025, measles cases have risen across parts of England, including London boroughs such as Enfield, following a sustained decline in MMR vaccination uptake.
MMR & MMRV vaccine
- The MMR vaccine helps protect against measles, mumps and rubella and is recommended for anyone born on or before 31 December 2019 who missed having this vaccine when they were younger – see NHS, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine
- The MMRV vaccine helps protect children against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox (varicella). It’s usually given to children when they are 12 months and 18 months old. Some older children are also offered it. Further details can be found here: NHS, MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox) vaccine
MMR vaccine uptake
- In London, MMR uptake is below the 95% coverage level recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent outbreaks.
- Enfield has vaccination coverage below the national average for two-dose MMR uptake by age five, leaving some communities vulnerable to outbreaks.
North West England pilot
- In March 2024, NHS England – North West announced that community pharmacies were the first in the country to pilot delivery of MMR vaccinations for eligible children aged 5–11 who had missed doses.