Enfield and Haringey now account for half of all measles cases confirmed in the UK so far this year, reports Joe Ives, Local Democracy Reporter

Cases of measles continue to rise in North London – with Enfield and Haringey accounting for almost half of all cases nationally.

Data released today (Thursday 5th) by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show twelve more infections in Enfield from the final week of February, taking the total number of measles cases in the North London borough since the start of the year to 71.

There have also been two more confirmed cases of the disease in Haringey, taking the total over the past two months to 13.

The outbreak continues to hit London the hardest, with 65% of the total 195 cases in the country this year occurring in the capital. The vast majority of infections are affecting children ten years or younger.

It is not clear where the other 43 cases in London have been identified, as the UKHSA only publishes specific information on boroughs with ten or more reported cases.

Outside the capital, Birmingham has had the highest recorded outbreak, now reaching 32 cases.

The UKHSA admits that reported figures “are likely to underestimate” the actual number of infections, especially over the past month. This is due to lags in cases being reported.

Measles is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious illness, but its spread is easily prevented through widely-available vaccinations.

North Central London Integrated Care Board (NCL ICB) is responsible for co-ordinating NHS services across Barnet, Enfield, Haringey, Camden and Islington.

Dr Jo Sauvage, the ICB’s chief medical officer, says the measles outbreak is mainly affecting children in schools and nurseries, with the most severe cases – requiring hospital treatment – linked to unvaccinated patients.

The North London NHS boss reaffirmed the importance of vaccination, saying: “Measles resurges when vaccination rates fall, but this is something we can turn around.

“The vaccine is safe and effective, and by boosting uptake quickly we can prevent further outbreaks.”

Enfield Council is providing advice for families on preventing the spread of measles via a dedicated web page here.

Advice from Enfield Council

Adults who are unsure whether they have received two doses should contact their GP practice;
Children can be vaccinated through their GP or local catch-up vaccination clinics. Find out more and book an appointment here;
Anyone not registered with a GP is strongly encouraged to do so as soon as possible to access free NHS vaccinations. Find out how here;
Check the common symptoms of measles here.

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