Two children die from measles as England data shows 100 new infections

London, the east of England and the West Midlands have the highest number of cases, as UKHSA urges families to get children vaccinated.

Published 11 June 2026 115 words
SOCIETY A1
Two children die from measles as England data shows 100 new infections

Two children in England have died from measles. Health experts say more than 100 new cases of the illness were reported in the last two weeks.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that one child died from measles and another from health problems that happened after measles. This is the first time two children have died from measles in one year in England and Wales since 2018.

Measles is still spreading in England. The most cases are in London, the east of England, and the West Midlands. Most of the sick children are under 10 years old and have not had their vaccine.

Doctors want parents to make sure their children have the MMR vaccine. This vaccine protects against measles. It is important for protecting babies and people who cannot have the vaccine because they are sick. If you or your child missed a vaccine, you can get it now from your doctor.

Vocabulary

health experts — People who know a lot about health and medicine.
reported — Someone told or wrote about something.
vaccine — A medicine that teaches your body to fight a disease.
spreading — Moving from one person or place to another.
protects — Keeps someone or something safe from harm.

Discussion Questions

  1. How many children have died from measles in England this year?
  2. What is the name of the vaccine that protects against measles?
  3. Why is it important for children to have the MMR vaccine?

Based on an article from The Guardian.

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