The UK recently lost its World Health Organization (WHO) measles elimination status after over 2,900 cases were confirmed in England in 2024, the highest levels in decades. 

Measles vaccination rates are well below the 95% WHO uptake target recommended to prevent outbreaks. 

Local MMR uptake in north London of 65% is consistent with the wider capital but well below optimal levels and similar to rates achieved in Malawi (69.3%) and Afghanistan (62%). 

Wide disparities in vaccine uptake are seen around the UK with significant differences between the nations and within English regions, with major cities like Birmingham, Liverpool and Manchester reporting low rates, and London a poor outlier. 

The NHS, meanwhile, has been accused of ‘complacency' for allowing vaccination rates to decline over the last 10 years. 

Following the latest outbreak, the Government has launched a new drive for childhood vaccination but it is clear more fundamental reform is needed, with  current support from GPs and schools not doing enough. 

The Enfield outbreak highlights how healthcare fails to reach some parts of the community and requires a much broader focus that incorporates pharmacies but also goes out to peoples' homes in deprived and minority areas. 

This is what neighbourhood health should really look like.