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Measles Vaccine Shortfall Could Cost £290 Million, Lives

2/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Imperial College London researchers warn that insufficient measles vaccination in England could cost over £290 million and 480 lives over 20 years.
About 3% of parents refuse the MMR vaccine, with uptake low in east London.
The World Health Organization targets 95% herd immunity, but only 91.9% of five-year-olds have received one dose.
A £2 million initiative aims to address barriers and improve vaccine uptake.

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Story summary

Imperial College London researchers warn that insufficient measles vaccination in England could cost over £290 million and 480 lives over 20 years.
About 3% of parents refuse the MMR vaccine, with uptake low in east London.
The World Health Organization targets 95% herd immunity, but only 91.9% of five-year-olds have received one dose.
A £2 million initiative aims to address barriers and improve vaccine uptake.