Measles cases rising in Scotland amid global outbreak as travel warning issued

Public health experts in Scotland say cases of measles are on the rise amid a global outbreak.

Public Health Scotland (PHS) is encouraging the public to take up the offer of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

As of July 9, there have been 27 cases of laboratory-confirmed measles in Scotland in 2025.

Measles can be very serious, causing pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and can affect people of any age if they have not been vaccinated.

It comes amid a global rise in cases, including in England, where outbreaks continue.

In recent days, a child died at a hospital in Liverpool having contracted measles.

Having two doses of the MMR vaccine is the best way to be fully protected against measles, say experts.

The first dose is offered to children between 12 and 13 months, and the second dose is offered at three years and four months. If missed at these times, it can be given at any age.

Uptake of MMR has declined across the UK in recent years, and there remains a risk of infection in those who are not vaccinated or not fully vaccinated for their age.

Health care workers should also have two doses of MMR and are advised to speak with their employer or occupational health department if they haven’t been fully vaccinated.

Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, head of vaccination and immunisation at PHS, said: “Measles is highly infectious and can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications for some people.

“We’ve seen a modest decline in vaccination rates in Scotland over the last decade, which is a concern as measles can spread quickly in communities where vaccination rates are low.

“That’s why we’re encouraging anyone who hasn’t had two doses of the free MMR vaccine, as well as parents and carers of children who have missed a dose, to visit the NHS Inform website and find out how to arrange an appointment in their local health board area.

“We would also encourage those who are planning to travel anytime soon to ensure that you and your children are up to date with all your vaccinations before leaving the country.”