An urgent call has been issued to parents to ensure their children catch up on their missed vaccinations following a surge in measles cases.

The appeal comes following reports that around 15 per cent of children in the West Midlands are not fully protected from childhood infections, including measles, by their fifth birthday.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued the alert, warning that there could be a further surge in measles cases with children returning to the classroom.

This comes amid growing concerns about the effect of cases in the region, which had the second-highest number of measles cases in 2024.

Approximately 24 per cent of all cases so far this year have been in the West Midlands.

In an effort to combat the situation, a childhood immunisation marketing campaign is being scaled up across England, reminding parents of the risks of their children missing protection against serious diseases.

These include measles, whooping cough, meningitis, diphtheria and polio.

Since autumn 2023, there have been several outbreaks in the West Midlands, North West, and London, marking the highest number of cases in England since 2012.

In response, MMR catch-up activities were launched, targeting communities with low vaccine uptake.

An evaluation report published by the UKHSA shows that parents are now coming forward, with an increase in MMR uptake, particularly in deprived and minority ethnic communities.

The NHS has administered 180,000 additional doses, with over 51,000 given to children aged five or under.

Emma Booth, consultant in health protection with UKHSA West Midlands, said: "As a mum and health protection consultant, it is especially tragic to see kids suffering when these diseases are so easily preventable.

She added: “It is encouraging that parents, whose children have missed vaccines are now coming forward, but we are a long way from ensuring all are protected and safe – with around 15 per cent of five-year-olds not fully protected from measles and a range of childhood infections before starting full-time school in the West Midlands.

“Measles is highly infectious and is still circulating in many areas across the country.

"It only takes one case to get into a school or nursery where many children are unprotected for numbers to suddenly surge."