A large measles outbreak is underway in north-east London, mainly hitting unvaccinated children under 10, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says. Since January 1, there have been 34 confirmed cases in Enfield schools and nurseries, some needing hospital care. Measles, a highly contagious viral illness, can cause serious problems like pneumonia or brain damage. Dr Vanessa Saliba, a UKHSA epidemiologist, warned, "Measles is a nasty illness for any child but for some it can lead to long-term complications and, tragically, death, but [it] is so easily preventable with two doses of the MMRV vaccine." The MMRV vaccine protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. Saliba advised parents, "With Easter holidays fast approaching, it is a timely reminder to families travelling overseas to ensure all family members, especially children, are vaccinated." The UK lost its measles elimination status earlier this year after nearly 4,000 cases since 2024. Only 84% of UK children get both MMRV doses by age five, below the 95% needed to stop outbreaks. Enfield has one of the lowest rates—just 64.3% of five-year-olds fully vaccinated in 2024-25. Over 60 suspected cases appeared in seven Enfield schools and a nursery, according to The Sunday Times. A local GP surgery said, "One in five children have been hospitalised due to measles and all of them had not been fully immunised." Enfield Council health leader Alev Cazimoglu said, "Measles is approximately six times more infectious than Covid-19." He urged families to vaccinate, saying, "You are protecting not only yourselves but also vulnerable members of our community." Dudu Sher-Arami, Enfield’s public health director, is writing to parents and launching temporary vaccination centers in schools. She warned the outbreak could spread across London, as people travel for work and study. Modelling suggests up to 160,000 Londoners could get measles if the outbreak worsens. This public health threat follows a child’s death from measles in Liverpool last year. Measles spreads through coughs, sneezes, and touch. Early signs are high fever, runny nose, coughing, and red eyes, followed by a spreading red rash. There is no treatment, only prevention via vaccination. Despite proven vaccine safety, false myths on social media have caused vaccine hesitancy in some communities. Health authorities stress getting the MMRV vaccine remains the best shield against this fast-spreading danger.