Measles Deaths in England

Vincent Iannelli, MD

3 hours ago

As measles cases in England continue to rise, it should be no surprise to anyone that children are dying.

“Two measles related deaths have been reported to date in 2026: one was an acute measles death in a child, and another is a death in a child due to late effects of measles.”
Confirmed cases of measles in England by month, age, region and upper tier local authority: 2026

No surprise, because measles is a life-threatening disease!

“My thoughts are with the families who have suffered such unimaginable loss. These deaths are a heartbreaking reminder that measles is not a harmless childhood illness.

Measles can lead to serious complications that can be fatal, and the MMR vaccine, which has saved countless lives, remains the best protection we have against this highly infectious disease.

I urge all parents and carers to check that their children are up-to-date with their vaccinations as it is never too late to catch up – even if you miss a dose. By ensuring our children are vaccinated, we not only protect them but also help safeguard the most vulnerable in our communities.”
Health Secretary James Murray

It is also no surprise that unlike Secretary RFK, Jr, their Health Secretary gave a heartfelt response to the deaths!

Measles Deaths in England

Mostly though, it is no surprise, because with more measles cases, we always see more measles deaths.

There have been at least 18 measles deaths in the UK since 2000, just ahead of the 16 measles deaths we have had in the United States.

And they are not always right away…

Many of the deaths happen later, either as SSPE or from other late effects of measles.

How Measles Kills

That shouldn’t be a surprise either.

Remember, in addition to causing death from pneumonia and encephalitis soon after you become infected with measles, it is also possible to die later, from complications of measles.

These complications include encephalitis, which can leave those who survive with permanent, life-threatening neurological problems.

And of course, measles can cause SSPE or subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

SSPE is a late complication of having a natural measles infection that can later kill those who survive measles about 6 to 8 years later, as they develop seizures, dementia, coma, and death over a few years.

What else?

If you get measles while pregnant, since you have no immunity to pass to your baby, they can be born with measles (congenital measles), with all the risks of measles, including measles encephalitis and SSPE – if they survive…

“As of August 25, 2025, Canada has reported over 4,700 measles cases, with Ontario accounting for 50%. Notably, pregnant individuals comprised 51 (2.2%) of Ontario’s cases, resulting in nine confirmed cases of congenital measles (cM), including one neonatal death.”
Congenital measles: A rare but life-threatening consequence of Canada’s largest measles outbreak

Also, because of the immune amnesia that measles can cause, people who survive having measles can later die of other infections to which they had previously had immunity.