Three people have died from measles this year, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). So far in 2026, there have been 1,003 confirmed cases of the highly contagious virus, surpassing last year's total of 960. The majority of those infected—over 61%—are children under 10 years old. Authorities reported two child deaths earlier this year, and a third adult death occurred in June, involving someone with a weakened immune system. The situation has been described as "deeply concerning," especially after four people died from measles in Pennsylvania in just three weeks in September. This follows a 30-year period in which the state had no reported measles-related deaths. The recent surge in cases has raised fears of a measles outbreak similar to those seen in the United States in the past. In England and Wales, a 15-year decline in vaccination rates has led to a current measles outbreak, reversing the country's official "measles elimination" status granted by the World Health Organization in 2017. Graham Blair, chief executive of the British Society for Immunology, said the outbreak was not unexpected. He explained that measles can be prevented only if at least 95% of the population is vaccinated. However, in England, only 83.7% of children received their measles vaccine by the recommended age last year. This drop in vaccination rates has led to a decrease in population immunity, making outbreaks more likely, especially in densely populated areas where fewer people are vaccinated. The outbreak has been most severe in London, where more than half of the recorded cases—463—have been reported. Enfield alone has seen 111 cases. Other hotspots include the West Midlands, particularly Birmingham, which has recorded 81 cases, as well as areas in Hertfordshire, Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Lancashire, Kent, and Essex. In total, 25 council areas in England and Wales have reported 10 or more confirmed cases. However, the UKHSA does not publish data for areas with fewer than 10 cases, meaning the exact locations of more than 200 infections remain unknown. Measles typically begins with cold-like symptoms such as a high fever, runny nose, cough, and watery eyes. A few days later, a rash appears, starting on the face and behind the ears before spreading across the body. The rash may look red or brown on lighter skin but can be harder to see on darker skin. If you suspect you or your child has measles, or if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, unvaccinated, or have been in contact with an infected person under one year old, you should contact NHS 111. Avoid going to school, work, or nurseries for four days after the rash appears and stay away from vulnerable individuals. If symptoms such as seizures, difficulty breathing, confusion, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, or loss of consciousness occur, seek emergency medical help immediately.