Global risk of measles: travel reminder

All travellers should check they are in date for measles (MMR or MMRV) vaccine

Measles outbreaks continue to be reported worldwide [1, 2] and measles is one of the most contagious human viruses known. Infection can cause serious illness, complications and can be fatal [1].

In 2024, an estimated 95 000 people died from measles worldwide, with 59 countries reporting large or disruptive outbreaks. This is almost three times the number reported in 2021 and is the highest since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic [3]. This includes a rise in measles cases across Europe and central Asia over the past two years [1, 4].

Following a drop in vaccine uptake during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant worldwide drop in the number of children vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella. Measles cases rose significantly in 2023 and 2024, including in the United Kingdom (UK) and have remained high. At the same time, vaccine rates in many countries have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels, increasing risk of outbreaks [4].

This has left many people, particularly children, at risk of measles, a potentially deadly infection. The World Health Organization and their partners are supporting countries worldwide in targeting who missed their routine vaccines, including measles, and offering catch up doses [5].

As measles is so contagious (easy to catch) anyone not vaccinated can be infected during travel and then infect others when they return home [2].

Anyone in the UK planning to travel abroad should check they are protected against measles, by making sure they have two doses of a measles containing vaccine e.g. MMR or MMRV. If you're not sure if you are protected, you can contact your GP surgery, as you can get MMR vaccine for free from the NHS at any age.

Regular updates of worldwide measles cases, outbreaks and infection rates are available here:

• European Centres for Disease Control and Prevention – Monthly measles reports
• World Health Organization: Provisional monthly measles and rubella data

Measles outbreaks are not usually reported in the TravelHealthPro Outbreak Surveillance section.

Advice for travellers

Measles is a highly infectious, very unpleasant viral illness that can lead to serious complications and death.

In the UK, since 1 January 2026, as part of the UK routine childhood immunisation programme all children are offered a combined measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine at 12 and 18 months old. This helps protect against chickenpox (varicella virus), as well as measles, mumps and rubella [6].

More information about MMRV vaccine is available here: What is the MMRV vaccine and is my child eligible?

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is still available to all adults, and any children born on or before 31 December 2019, who missed having this vaccine when they were younger [7]. If you are not sure if you are protected, check with your GP.

Before you travel, make sure you are up to date with all currently recommended UK vaccines. You should also check for any current country recommendations about measles vaccines.

In the UK, while the first MMRV is given to babies at around 12 months of age, with a second dose given at 18 months, in some situations, including, travel abroad, MMR (from six months of age) or MMRV (from nine months of age) can be given to babies to protect them while travelling. As the response to MMR/MMRV in babies is sub-optimal (less effective), if vaccine is given before one year of age; two further doses of MMR/MMRV should be given at the recommended ages for lifelong protection [7].

Ask your health professional about the best option for your child before you travel.

Advice for health professionals

Guidance on measles vaccination, including the MMRV vaccine is available in Immunisation against infectious disease. Advice on measles vaccine for people whose immunisation status is uncertain is also available.

In the UK, measles is a notifiable disease. All suspected measles cases should be reported to the local Health Protection Team.