Measles outbreak 'showing signs' of stabilising

However the situation remains “under close review” with 20 cases now recorded in Haringey

Health bosses in North London say that the measles outbreak which began in January has shown “potential signs of stabilisation”.

However, they are also stressing that measles continues to circulate Enfield and Haringey.

The latest figures, published last Thursday (2nd), show 95 measles recorded cases in Enfield since the start of the year, with 20 further cases recorded in Haringey and 18 in Islington.

Dr Tania Misra, a consultant in health protection from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said that while progress is being seen in Enfield, the overall situation remains under close review.

She said: “The latest published data shows that Enfield continues to report the highest number of measles cases in London, with 95 cases recorded so far. We are also seeing cases in neighbouring boroughs, including 20 cases in Haringey and 18 cases in Islington.

“While there are early signs of stabilisation in Enfield, measles remains in circulation across North London. We continue to monitor the situation closely and work with local NHS and council partners as patterns change.”

Health leaders say the stabilisation in Enfield is being supported by strong local action, including a major vaccination promotion, with “positive engagement from local communities and families”.

Last week, over 100,000 households in the most impacted areas across Enfield and Haringey received leaflets from the NHS reminding people of the signs of measles and how to get protected through immunisation.

NHS leaders have highlighted the role that additional vaccinations have made, although overall rates of vaccination remain low, as they are across London.

Dr Jo Sauvage, chief medical officer of West and North London Integrated Care Board, said: “Across north central London last year, an average of around 2,000 first and second dose MMR vaccinations were delivered each month.

“In February 2026, we saw around 3,600 MMR vaccinations delivered – that’s a sizable increase – in response to the outbreak, the expanded vaccination offer and the fact that local people have come forward.

“While it is difficult to make direct comparisons due to changes in eligibility, population size and seasonal factors, it’s clear that vaccination activity has increased markedly.”

Dr Sauvage added: “GPs and primary care teams across North London have responded incredibly positively. GP practices have created over 800 extra vaccination appointments locally and are actively calling families, and standing up additional clinics to make it as easy as possible for people to get protected.”

The NHS funds Vaccination UK catch-up clinics for school aged children, giving parents extra access to MMR vaccinations, with over 180 appointments made available in Enfield and Haringey since the end of January.

Dr Sauvage added there remain concerns about whether people are fully aware of the risks. “Measles is not a mild illness,” she said.

“It can be very serious, particularly for young children and vulnerable people and we continue to see people who are very seriously unwell as a result. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect people and reduce further spread.”

Anyone who thinks they or their child may have measles should seek medical advice and avoid contact with others where possible.

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