By UK health officials are sounding the alarm as measles cases rise sharply and vaccination rates hit a decade-low. The National Health Service is launching a campaign after recording about 250 confirmed measles cases in certain parts of England last year, primarily affecting children under 10. Vaccination rates, particularly in London, have dropped to 85%, well below the recommended 95% by the World Health Organization. Over 3.4 million children under 16 are at risk due to insufficient protection. While the UK declared measles eliminated in 2017, recent outbreaks highlight the vulnerability caused by declining vaccine coverage. The global spike in measles cases, exacerbated by pandemic-related drops in vaccination levels, emphasizes the urgency for public health action. Officials stress the importance of accurate information and urge the public to consult trustworthy sources. The historical impact of vaccine misinformation, including the discredited link to autism in the late 1990s, underscores the need for continuous education and outreach efforts.
