Cllr David Fothergill, chairman of the Local Government Association's Community Wellbeing Board, said there was an urgent need to address falling immunisation rates after a child died at Alder Hey hospital in Liverpool after contracting measles.

Only 84% of children in England receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine by age two, and just 88.8% receive both doses by age five—below the 95% threshold recommended by the World Health Organisation to achieve herd immunity. 

‘These gaps have contributed to 529 confirmed measles cases in England so far in 2025, with 68% occurring in children under the age of 10,' Fothergill said.

‘We need action alongside awareness and councils stand ready to work in close partnership with the NHS and national Government to ensure families have access to clear, trusted information and convenient services to help ensure every child is protected.

‘The LGA reaffirms its commitment to the principles outlined in the 10-Year Health Plan and urges the Department of Health and Social Care to work closely with councils to strengthen vaccination uptake and safeguard public health.'

Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust said it had seen an increasing number of measles cases, with 17 children treated for the effects and complications of the disease at its hospital since June.