Health experts warn of growing risk as measles spreads in scotland; unvaccinated individuals urged to seek MMR protection

Public Health Scotland has issued a stark warning as confirmed measles cases continue to rise, echoing a concerning global trend. With 27 laboratory-confirmed cases already reported in Scotland in 2025 as of 9 July, the country’s top public health officials are urging the public to ensure full vaccination with the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

This spike in cases comes during a worldwide resurgence of the highly contagious virus. In England, outbreaks have persisted throughout the year, and a child in Liverpool tragically died in recent days after contracting the illness—highlighting the very real dangers of under-vaccination.

“Measles is highly infectious and can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications for some people,” said Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, Head of Vaccination and Immunisation at Public Health Scotland (PHS). He warned that pneumonia and encephalitis—an inflammation of the brain—are among the most severe outcomes, affecting people of any age if they have not been adequately immunised.

Despite the MMR vaccine being free and widely available, uptake has dropped in Scotland over the past decade. Experts say this creates ripe conditions for outbreaks, particularly in communities with low vaccination rates.

The first dose of MMR is offered to children between 12 and 13 months, with a second dose given at around three years and four months. However, it can be safely administered at any age if missed.

“This modest but consistent decline in vaccination rates is concerning,” Dr Ghebrehewet explained. “We are urging anyone—whether adults or the parents of young children—who has not received both doses of the vaccine to act now.”

PHS has launched a public information drive, encouraging Scots to visit the NHS Inform website to check their vaccination records and book an appointment through their local health board if needed.

Those planning to travel are especially urged to ensure they and their children are up to date with MMR and other routine immunisations. Travel, particularly to areas experiencing outbreaks, increases the risk of infection and potential spread upon return.

Healthcare workers, too, are being reminded of their responsibility to be fully protected. Those who haven’t received both doses are encouraged to speak with their occupational health teams to arrange immunisation.

Globally, measles has been on the rise due to vaccine hesitancy, disrupted healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, and misinformation. Despite the name, rare complications from measles are not rare among the unvaccinated. The disease has an R0 (basic reproduction number) of 12 to 18, making it one of the most contagious viruses known to medicine.

Public Health Scotland’s messaging has taken to social media, urging vigilance and awareness. In one video, Dr Ghebrehewet reminded the public: “Cases of measles are on the rise across the world, so we encourage everyone to make sure you have received two doses of the MMR vaccine.”

The appeal is not just medical but civic: halting the spread of measles relies on high community immunity, typically requiring around 95% of the population to be vaccinated.

With summer travel, family gatherings, and crowded public events ahead, the risk of further transmission remains high. Authorities hope that rapid action and renewed awareness will help stop Scotland’s outbreak from worsening.