A measles outbreak has spread to several schools in north London, with some children requiring hospital treatment.
The UK Health and Safety Agency (UKHSA) has reported 34 confirmed cases. measles Cases in Enfield between January 1 and February 9.
The cases in the London borough represent more than a third of the 96 cases confirmed by health authorities across England so far this year.
One in five children infected in the recent outbreak required hospital treatment, and “all were not fully vaccinated,” according to a local GP.
Enfield’s NHS Ordnance Unity Center for Health said: “Measles outbreaks are spreading rapidly in several schools across Enfield.”
A general practitioner said: “At least seven schools in Enfield and Haringey have confirmed cases and the outbreak is growing.”
“Parents should make sure their children are up to date on vaccinations.”
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can spread very easily among people who are not fully vaccinated.
This virus causes cold-like symptoms, including a rash and spots inside the mouth.
Although most people recover, the disease can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, and in rare cases, long-term disability or death.
UKHSA has warned that modeling a major measles outbreak in London could result in between 40,000 and 160,000 infections.
Modeling published in a report entitled ‘Assessing the risk of measles resurgence in the UK’ estimates that hospitalization rates will range from 20% to 40% depending on age.
Read more from Sky News:
The van dwellers had no choice but to live on the side of the road.
Russia kills Alexei Navalny with frog poison, Britain and allies say
A drop in vaccination rates has raised concerns about a widespread outbreak of the virus, with the World Health Organization warning Britain has been infected. It lost its measles-free status last month.
Dudu Shah Alami, Enfield’s director of public health, told the Sunday Times that London had “one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country, if not the lowest”, making the capital particularly vulnerable to an outbreak.
Enfield City Council said: “We are working closely with UKHSA, the NHS and local partners to respond to a confirmed measles outbreak within the borough.”
“We are managing the situation in accordance with national public health guidance, protecting the population and limiting further spread of infection,” said Alev Kasimoglu, cabinet member for health and social protection.
There is no cure for measles, but it can be prevented with vaccination.
Two measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) shots provide a high level of protection and can prevent further outbreaks.