Britons planning holidays abroad are advised to stay up to date with vaccinations due to the increase in measles cases worldwide.

Britons planning their holidays abroad this summer are warned to be 'up to date' with vaccinations, in the context of a global increase in measles cases, including in certain regions of Europe and Asia.

Measles is an extremely contagious viral disease that can cause cold-like symptoms, skin rashes, and, in severe cases, serious complications such as meningitis or death. Experts from Travel Health Pro recommend that travelers ensure they have received routine vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella).

According to data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, 3,607 cases of measles have been reported in the European Union, with the majority of affected individuals being unvaccinated.

Additionally, a report from WHO and UNICEF highlights that the number of measles cases in Europe reached a historic high in 2024, with 127,350 cases, double that of 2023, underscoring the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of the disease.