The drive follows a major measles outbreak in north London which has infected at least 60 children.

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

At the same time childhood vaccination rates were, and still are, well below the 95% WHO uptake target needed to prevent measles outbreaks. 

The UKHSA estimates childhood vaccinations prevent around 5,000 deaths and more than 228,000 hospital admissions in England every year.

Dr Zubir Ahmed, health innovation and safety minister, said: ‘Vaccination is one of the greatest public health successes of our time, protecting children from serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases. But with vaccination rates falling and the UK losing its measles elimination status, it's vital we act now.'

UKHSA data shows London currently accounts for 63.5% of measles cases in England with over a quarter (26%) in the West Midlands.

North Central London ICB's chief medical officer, Dr Jo Sauvage, said local MMR uptake of 65% was consistent with wider London but well below optimal levels.

Enfield Council has confirmed over 60 unconfirmed measles case.

A council spokesperson told HM no schools had closed as a result and there were no closure plans (although it is currently the half-term holiday for children).

The council said catch up vaccination clinics are running this week for school age children, adding it was continuing a ‘vigorous comms plan' to get more children vaccinated.