Measles cases rise in West Midlands - here's how your family can get protected
In the West Midlands, 150 cases have been recorded from the start of the year to July 20.
Families in the West Midlands are being urged to protect their children against the spread of measles, as cases continue to rise.
Figures released by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show there have been 933 confirmed measles cases reported in England from the start of the year to July 20 - an increase of 50 cases in two weeks.
In June, health officials announced that two children in England had died from measles, then officials reported that an adult with an “underlying immunological problem” also died.
The number of recorded cases is already nearing the 959 cases seen across England in the whole of 2025.
In the West Midlands, 150 cases have been recorded from the start of the year to July 20.
This includes 12 cases in Sandwell, 81 in Birmingham and 15 in Staffordshire.
Families in the West Midlands are being urged to make sure their children are protected.
GP practices will contact eligible children aged 12 months to under six years who have missed one or two doses of the new MMR/V vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox (varicella).
Meanwhile, families of children aged six to 11 years who have missed MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccinations will be invited to book an appointment through either the NHS App, SMS, email or letter.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Wolverhampton Council's cabinet member for health, wellbeing and community, said: "Measles is an infectious disease which spreads very easily and can sometimes cause serious complications such as meningitis, pneumonia, blindness and seizures.
“The best way to protect your child against measles is through vaccination.
“Two doses of the vaccine provide long-term protection, and so we’re encouraging parents to take action."
NHS director of vaccination Caroline Temmink added: “These childhood illnesses are serious and some of them in rare cases can be fatal, but they are entirely preventable.
“This is why GPs are contacting families to help overcome any barriers to getting children the protection they need.
“If you are invited to catch up on your child’s MMR or MMR/V vaccinations, please come forward and take up this crucial offer.”
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.