James Pearson

A three-month measles outbreak at Worcestershire Royal Hospital involved seven confirmed cases, including two staff members, and exposed gaps in vaccination monitoring among patient-facing NHS workers. A review found that more than a quarter of relevant staff lacked documented vaccination or natural immunity, prompting concern about risks to vulnerable patients, including a pregnant woman and two transplant recipients who received preventative immunoglobulin. On-site clinics and tighter checks increased documented vaccination coverage from 72% to 94%, although NHS frontline workers are recommended—not legally required—to have evidence of two MMR doses or immunity. Rising measles cases across Worcestershire and the wider West Midlands have led health officials to urge adults to check their vaccination status.