Measles Warning Issued as Cases Rise Across Popular Holiday Destinations

Holidaymakers from Newcastle planning trips to Spain, France and other popular European destinations this summer are being urged to ensure their vaccinations are up to date amid a growing measles outbreak across parts of Europe.

Health officials have raised concerns after thousands of measles cases were recorded across Europe and Central Asia, with several deaths linked to the highly contagious virus. Families travelling abroad during the busy holiday season are being advised to check their MMR vaccination status before departure, especially when travelling with young children.

According to figures released by the World Health Organisation, nearly 34,000 measles cases were reported across Europe and Central Asia during 2025. Although the total represented a fall compared with the previous year, fresh outbreaks have continued to emerge in 2026, sparking renewed warnings from health authorities.

Spain among countries seeing rising measles cases.

Spain has become one of the European countries reporting a sharp increase in measles infections in recent months. The latest data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control showed 36 confirmed cases in Spain during February 2026 alone.

Italy recorded the highest number of infections during the same period with 63 cases, while France reported 16 and Poland recorded five. Across the European Union, 11 countries reported a combined total of 139 cases in February.

Health experts say measles spreads extremely easily, particularly in crowded public places such as airports, trains, hotels and tourist attractions. For families travelling overseas from Newcastle upon Tyne and across the North East, doctors say vaccination remains the strongest protection.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control confirmed six measles-related deaths were recorded across Europe during the year leading up to February 2026. Four deaths occurred in France, while Romania and the Netherlands each recorded one fatality.

Young children remain most at risk.

Medical experts have warned that babies and young children continue to account for a large proportion of infections. Around one-third of reported cases involved children under the age of five, with infants among the most vulnerable to severe complications.

Measles can lead to serious health problems including pneumonia, brain inflammation and long-term complications affecting the immune system. Pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are also considered high-risk groups.

Niamh McMillan, Pharmacy Superintendent, said the rise in cases serves as an important reminder for people to check whether they have received both doses of the MMR vaccine.

She explained: “Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can spread rapidly in busy environments. Airports, public transport and holiday resorts can all increase the risk of transmission.

“The most effective protection against measles is vaccination. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide long-term protection for both adults and children.”

Measles cases also increasing across England.

The warning comes as measles infections continue to rise across England, with health officials monitoring a concerning increase in cases during the first months of 2026.

Figures published by the UK Health Security Agency revealed there have been 477 laboratory-confirmed measles cases in England between January 1 and April 27 this year.

Children aged 10 and under account for the majority of infections, with more than 300 confirmed cases recorded in younger age groups. Officials say declining uptake of childhood vaccinations in some communities has contributed to the resurgence.

London has seen the highest concentration of cases so far, although health experts warn outbreaks can spread quickly to other parts of the country through travel and close contact.

Despite the increase in infections, there have been no reported measles deaths in England this year.

Symptoms travellers should watch for.

Doctors are urging holidaymakers from Newcastle and elsewhere in the North East to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of measles before travelling abroad.

Early symptoms can often resemble a common cold, making it difficult to identify during the initial stages. People infected with measles may first experience a high temperature, persistent cough, sore throat and a runny nose.

One of the more distinctive warning signs includes small white spots inside the mouth known as Koplik spots. These can appear before the main rash develops.

The tell-tale measles rash usually begins on the face before spreading across the body. It often appears several days after the first symptoms start and can last for more than a week.

Health experts say anyone who suspects they or their child may have measles should stay at home and seek medical advice to avoid spreading the virus further.

Newcastle travellers urged to check vaccinations before holidays.

Travel industry experts expect thousands of people from Newcastle and surrounding areas to head to Spain, France, Portugal and Greece during the summer holiday season.

With schools preparing for half-term breaks and summer departures increasing, healthcare professionals are encouraging families to check vaccination records now rather than waiting until the last minute.

The NHS recommends children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine as part of routine immunisation programmes. Adults who missed vaccinations during childhood can also receive the vaccine later in life.

Pharmacists say many people are unaware they may not be fully protected, especially if they only received one dose as children.

Holidaymakers are also being reminded to maintain good hygiene practices while travelling, including regular hand washing and avoiding close contact with anyone displaying symptoms of illness.

Why measles outbreaks are returning across Europe.

Health authorities believe several factors are contributing to the return of measles outbreaks across Europe. Falling vaccination uptake during recent years has left gaps in population immunity, allowing the virus to spread more easily.

International travel has also played a role in increasing transmission between countries, particularly during busy holiday periods when millions of people move through airports and tourist hotspots.

The World Health Organisation has repeatedly warned that measles remains one of the world’s most contagious diseases despite the availability of effective vaccines.

Experts say even small declines in vaccination rates can lead to outbreaks because measles spreads far more easily than many other viruses.

For travellers from Newcastle preparing for summer breaks abroad, medical professionals say taking simple precautions now could help prevent illness later.

Have you checked your MMR vaccination before travelling abroad this year? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!