What's happened
Following a decline in vaccination rates, the UK has lost its WHO measles elimination status. Experts warn of major outbreaks, with projections of nearly 400,000 cases and 480 deaths over 20 years. Vaccination coverage remains below the 95% herd immunity threshold, risking further spread.
What's behind the headline?
What the papers say
The Independent reports that vaccination rates in the UK have plateaued, with some regions falling below herd immunity thresholds, leading to increased outbreaks and the loss of WHO elimination status. Sky News emphasizes the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent resurgence, citing recent WHO decisions and case numbers. The New York Times highlights the policy differences, noting that the US mandates vaccines for school entry, which has helped contain outbreaks, whereas the UK relies on voluntary vaccination, contributing to the current crisis. All Africa provides context on Uganda's successful immunization efforts, contrasting with the UK's challenges, and underscores the importance of sustained public health campaigns. These sources collectively illustrate the global challenge of vaccine hesitancy and the critical need for policy and community engagement to prevent preventable diseases.
How we got here
The UK previously achieved measles elimination status between 2021 and 2023, but transmission was re-established in 2024 due to plateaued vaccination rates and rising cases. Vaccination coverage has fallen below WHO recommended levels, especially in certain regions, leading to increased outbreaks and the loss of elimination status. The situation is compounded by vaccine hesitancy and policy shifts, with some countries making vaccines mandatory, unlike the UK.
Go deeper
Common question
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How Is Uganda Improving Its Vaccination Rates?
Uganda has made notable progress in expanding its immunization programs, covering diseases like malaria, HPV, yellow fever, and hepatitis B. Despite these advances, challenges such as measles outbreaks and misinformation still hinder full coverage. Curious about how Uganda is tackling these issues and what obstacles remain? Below, we explore the country's vaccination efforts, the hurdles faced, and what it means for public health both locally and globally.
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What Is Causing Vaccine Misinformation in Uganda?
Vaccine misinformation is a major obstacle to immunization efforts worldwide, including in Uganda. Despite progress in vaccinating against diseases like malaria, HPV, yellow fever, and hepatitis B, false information and skepticism threaten to undo these gains. Understanding what misinformation is affecting vaccination efforts and how governments are fighting back can help us see the bigger picture of public health challenges today.
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Why Are Vaccine Policies Changing Around the World?
Recent shifts in vaccine policies across different countries have sparked questions about global health, public trust, and government strategies. From resistance in the US to progress in Uganda, understanding these changes is key to grasping the future of immunization efforts worldwide. Below, we explore the reasons behind these policy shifts and what they mean for public health.
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Why Are Measles Outbreaks Increasing in the UK?
Recent reports highlight a worrying rise in measles cases across the UK, leading to the country's loss of WHO measles elimination status. This surge raises important questions about vaccination rates, public health policies, and the risks of declining herd immunity. Below, we explore the key reasons behind this trend and what can be done to prevent further outbreaks.
More on these topics
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The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. The WHO Constitution, which establishes the agency's governing structure and principles, states its main objective as "the attainment
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.