Edith Hejberg
Health authorities are now warning that measles could “spread like wildfire” through unvaccinated populations
A young child has tragically died at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool after contracting measles, becoming only the second child in the UK to die from the virus in the past decade.
While the child’s identity hasn’t been made public, it’s understood they were already living with other health complications at the time of the infection.
Fears of an Outbreak as Vaccination Rates Decline
Health authorities are now warning that measles could “spread like wildfire” through unvaccinated populations, especially in Merseyside, where immunisation rates have dropped below the 95% threshold needed to achieve herd immunity.
Experts say the region is at real risk of a larger outbreak.
Hospital and Public Health Officials Sound the Alarm
Liverpool’s Director of Public Health, Professor Matt Ashton, said he was “extremely worried” about the virus gaining a foothold in the community. Alder Hey Hospital has treated 17 children for measles-related complications since June, including children with weakened immune systems.
The hospital took the unusual step of issuing an open letter to parents, stressing that the surge in cases is linked to declining MMR vaccine uptake.
Measles Symptoms Can Escalate Quickly
Measles typically begins with cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, high temperature, cough, and sore, watery eyes. A few days later, a rash appears, usually starting on the face before spreading across the body.
Though it may not be itchy, the rash can form large blotchy patches and be harder to detect on darker skin tones.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Health officials advise calling NHS 111 or seeing a GP urgently if someone shows signs of measles, particularly if they are under one, pregnant, or immunocompromised.
Warning signs include prolonged high fever, trouble breathing, reduced fluid intake, or fewer wet nappies in babies. In these cases, prompt medical help is vital.
Isolation Is Key to Preventing Further Spread
If diagnosed with measles, individuals should stay home for at least four days after the rash appears and avoid close contact with babies, pregnant people, or anyone with a weakened immune system.
This isolation period is essential in curbing the virus’s rapid spread.
The MMR Vaccine Offers Strong Protection
The MMR vaccine—which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella—is highly effective, offering about 97% protection after two doses.
In the UK, children typically receive their first dose after turning one and a second dose at 18 months. Catch-up vaccinations are available for anyone who missed theirs as a child.
Alder Hey’s Message to Families: Vaccinate Now
A spokesperson from Alder Hey said the hospital is “deeply concerned” about the rising number of serious measles cases and emphasised the importance of vaccination: “We can prevent people, including children from contracting measles through vaccination. Please protect yourself and vulnerable children and young people by ensuring you are fully vaccinated.”
