Resurgence of measles in London

Thank you for your continued efforts in dealing with suspected measles cases in London. UKHSA and NHS colleagues are working together to monitor and respond to an increase in measles cases across London.

Key Points

• Measles cases are increasing across London. All patients with suspected measles (rash and fever) should be isolated immediately on arrival to protect other patients.
• Please notify all suspected measles cases promptly to UKHSA to facilitate timely access to post-exposure immunoglobulin for individuals in risk groups.
• During this period of increased activity, UKHSA will prioritise health protection actions for contacts of measles cases who are immunosuppressed, pregnant or infants aged under 1 year. Please check and inform UKHSA if there have been any contacts in these three priority groups during the case’s infectious period.
• Please continue to vaccinate all children with MMR as per the routine immunisation schedule and to offer MMR opportunistically to all eligible individuals without two recorded doses of MMR. There is no upper age limit to offering MMR vaccine.
• All healthcare workers (and staff who have direct contact with patients) should have satisfactory evidence of protection against measles.
• A list of relevant guidance can be found in the appendix of this letter.