Hounslow Council Issues Measles Warning

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Four local cases raise concern about low vaccination uptake

Residents are advised to ensure children are up-to-date with vaccines. Picture: AI-generated

February 20, 2026

Hounslow Council has issued a renewed warning to residents after four confirmed cases of measles were reported in the borough, as London continues to experience a wider outbreak of the highly infectious disease.

Public health officials say the capital has seen a steady increase in measles cases over recent months, with several London boroughs reporting clusters linked to low vaccination uptake. Health agencies have urged families to check their vaccination records and ensure children are fully protected.

MMR uptake in Hounslow sits below the level needed for strong community protection and is broadly in line with the wider challenges seen across London, where vaccination rates remain the lowest in the country. Recent data shows significant variation between boroughs, with some areas of east and north-east London reporting uptake as low as around 60–70 percent for both MMR doses by age five, well below the World Health Organisation’s 95 percent target for herd immunity.

Hounslow’s coverage is higher than the very lowest -performing boroughs but still falls short of national goals, reflecting the capital’s overall pattern of reduced childhood vaccination rates and the increased risk of outbreaks this creates.

Measles spreads easily through coughing and sneezing, and early symptoms can resemble a severe cold. The first signs include:

• high temperature
• runny or blocked nose
• sneezing
• cough
• red, watery eyes
• a blotchy rash that typically appears a few days after symptoms begin

Residents who suspect measles are advised to contact their GP and stay away from work, school or nursery for at least four days after the rash appears to help prevent further spread.

Hounslow Council is urging parents and carers to ensure children are up to date with their vaccinations. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella and is recommended for anyone born on or before 31 December 2019 who missed their childhood doses.

Children born after this date are now offered the MMRV vaccine, which also protects against chickenpox. It is given at 12 months and 18 months, with catch‑up doses available for older children.

Health officials stress that it is never too late to catch up on missed vaccinations. GP surgeries can check records and arrange appointments, and some children may be offered the vaccine through school.

Vaccination is especially important for:

• children, teenagers and young adults
• people who could become pregnant
• healthcare workers
• travellers visiting countries with higher measles risk

Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, meningitis, blindness and hearing loss. For pregnant women, infection can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth or stillbirth.

Council leaders say the recent local cases highlight the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to protect vulnerable residents, including newborn babies and people with weakened immune systems who cannot be vaccinated.

Residents seeking further information are encouraged to speak to their GP or visit the NHS website.

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