Quick Answer: A significant measles outbreak is currently spreading through North London, primarily affecting schools in Enfield and Haringey. As of February 2026, over 60 cases have been reported, with health officials warning of “fast-spreading” transmission among unvaccinated children. One in five infected children has required hospita

The Situation in North London

Health experts are currently tracking a serious rise in measles cases across North London. The outbreak is moving quickly through schools and nurseries. Most of the cases are centered in Enfield and Haringey, but the virus is starting to show up in other nearby areas too.+1

Since the start of 2026, officials have confirmed dozens of cases. In Enfield alone, more than 30 cases were laboratory-confirmed in just the first few weeks of the year. This represents a large portion of all the measles cases in England right now.+1

What makes this outbreak particularly worrying is how many children are getting very sick. Local doctors report that one in five children infected in this North London surge has ended up in the hospital. None of the children who needed hospital care had been fully vaccinated.+1

Why is Measles Spreading Now?

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. If one person has it, nine out of ten people nearby will catch it if they aren’t protected.+1

The main reason for this “fast-spreading” outbreak is a drop in vaccination rates. To keep a community safe from measles, about 95% of people need to be vaccinated. In some parts of London, that number has fallen much lower—in some spots, only about 64% of children have had both doses of their vaccine.+2

Because of these low numbers, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently announced that the UK has lost its “measles-free” status. This means the virus is now considered to be spreading regularly within the country again.+1

Recognizing the Symptoms

It is vital for parents to know what to look for. Measles often starts out looking like a common cold, but it quickly becomes much more serious.

The First Signs

The first symptoms usually appear about 10 days after a person is exposed. They include:

A very high fever (often reaching 39°C or higher).
A runny or blocked nose.
Sneezing and a persistent cough.
Red, sore, and watery eyes (conjunctivitis).
Small white spots that look like grains of salt inside the cheeks.

The Measles Rash

A few days after the cold-like symptoms start, a blotchy rash appears.

Where it starts: It usually begins on the face and behind the ears.
Where it goes: It spreads down to the neck, body, arms, and legs.
What it looks like: On light skin, the spots look red or brown. On brown or black skin, the rash might look purple or darker than the skin around it. It can be harder to see on darker skin tones, but the skin might feel bumpy.+1

Is It Dangerous?

Most people think of measles as just a childhood rash, but it can be very dangerous. It weakens the immune system, making it hard for the body to fight off other germs.

Common complications include ear infections and diarrhea. However, more serious issues can happen, such as:

Pneumonia: A severe lung infection that is the most common cause of measles deaths.
Encephalitis: Swelling of the brain that can lead to seizures or permanent brain damage.
Long-term issues: In rare cases, measles can lead to vision loss or even death.

The New MMRV Vaccine (2026 Update)

As of January 2026, the UK has updated its vaccination schedule. Children are now being offered the MMRV vaccine.+1

This is a “4-in-1” shot. It protects against four diseases instead of three:

Measles
Mumps
Rubella
Varicella (Chickenpox)

This change helps protect children from chickenpox while also providing the necessary two doses of protection against measles.

The Schedule

First Dose: Given at 12 months old.
Second Dose: Now given at 18 months old (moved up from age 3 to provide earlier protection).

If your child is older and missed their shots, it is not too late. You can contact your GP to book a “catch-up” appointment. The vaccine is free on the NHS for anyone who hasn’t had two doses.

What to Do if You Suspect Measles

If you think your child has measles, do not go straight to your GP surgery or A&E. Because the virus is so contagious, you could easily infect many other people in the waiting room.

Call first: Phone your GP or call 111. Tell them you suspect measles.
Stay home: Keep your child away from school, nursery, or public places for at least four days after the rash first appears.
Manage symptoms: Use infant paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with fever and pain. Make sure they drink plenty of water.
Watch for “Red Flags”: Seek urgent medical help if your child has trouble breathing, seems confused, or has a fit (seizure).

Protecting the Community

Vaccination isn’t just about protecting your own child. It also protects people who cannot get the vaccine, such as:

Tiny babies who are too young for the shot.
Pregnant women.
People with weakened immune systems (like those undergoing cancer treatment).

By ensuring your family is up to date with their MMR or MMRV doses, you are helping to stop the spread in North London and keeping everyone safe.

Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 111 (in the UK) immediately.