Babies Protected Earlier Against Meningitis B as Measles Cases Rise

UKPulse Health Desk

New data shows babies are receiving earlier protection against meningitis B due to a schedule change. However, a significant gap in measles vaccination coverage persists across England, with cases continuing to climb.

Second MenB dose coverage for 6-month-olds increased by 4.6 percentage points to 89.8% in April 2026.
The new MMRV vaccine, protecting against chickenpox, measles, mumps, and rubella, shows sustained early uptake.
Measles cases in England have reached 801 between January and June 2026, with two child fatalities reported.
First dose MMR/MMRV coverage for 15-month-olds varies significantly, from 72.0% in London to 83.0% in the South West.

The latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) paint a mixed picture of England's childhood vaccination programme. On the one hand, the introduction of revised routine vaccinations has led to promising early results in protecting babies against meningitis B (MenB). However, concerns remain regarding measles vaccination coverage, with 801 cases reported between January and June this year.

The adjustments to the schedule have shown positive outcomes, particularly in providing earlier immunity to MenB. Provisional data reveals that, by April, 89.8% of six-month-old babies had received their second MenB dose – a 4.6 percentage point increase on the same period last year. This improvement is attributed to the decision to administer the second dose at 12 weeks instead of 16 weeks, made from June last year.

The broader overhaul of the childhood immunisation programme has also introduced an 18-month appointment offering the second dose of the MMR vaccine earlier and switching from MMR to MMRV. The new vaccine provides protection against chickenpox in addition to measles, mumps, and rubella. Despite a slow start, provisional data for April shows a steady uptake of the MMRV vaccine, with 77.7% of eligible 15-month-olds receiving their first dose.

However, these positive developments are overshadowed by rising concerns over measles vaccination coverage. The UKHSA has reported a further 65 laboratory-confirmed cases in England in the past fortnight alone, bringing the total for this year to 801. Tragically, two children have lost their lives due to measles in 2026. Regional disparities in vaccination rates are also evident, with first dose MMR/MMRV coverage varying between 72% in London and 83% in the South West.

According to Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam of the UKHSA, "Childhood vaccines are life-saving. Sub-optimal uptake has severe consequences." Health Minister Sharon Hodgson urges parents to ensure their children's vaccinations are up-to-date, highlighting the ease of the new schedule and NHS efforts to support catch-up campaigns.

Why this matters: The changes to the vaccination schedule mean babies are better protected earlier against serious diseases like meningitis B. However, the rising measles cases and tragic fatalities underscore the urgent need for higher vaccination uptake to protect vulnerable children and prevent further outbreaks.

What this means for you: What this means for you: If you are a parent, your baby will now receive crucial protection against meningitis B earlier. It is vital to ensure your child is up to date with all their vaccinations, especially the MMRV, to protect them and the wider community against preventable diseases like measles. Consult your GP or call NHS 111 if you have concerns about your child's vaccination schedule.

Babies Protected Earlier Against Meningitis B as Measles Cases Rise

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