Glastonbury-bound festival attendees are being advised to ensure they are vaccinated against measles due to a concerning increase in cases.

Crowds of over 200,000 are expected to gather at Worthy Farm for one of the largest music events of the year in just over two weeks. Acts like the 1975 and Olivia Rodrigo are set to perform.

In some parts of England, measles cases are nearing levels seen in 2024, the worst outbreak in over a decade. Experts are warning that the festival could become a 'perfect superspreader' event.

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provides up to 99% protection against these illnesses, which can lead to severe complications like meningitis, hearing loss, and pregnancy issues.

Without vaccination, one infected person can spread measles to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals nearby. Experts emphasize the importance of being fully vaccinated.

Dr. Simon Clarke from the University of Reading expressed concerns that Glastonbury could turn into a superspreader event. Many attendees may have been influenced by a debunked study from the late 90s that falsely linked the MMR jab to autism.

Professor Lawrence Young from Warwick University highlighted the risk of measles spreading further due to the high number of cases in the UK, especially in the South West and London.

Measles patients can be infectious before symptoms appear, making it easier to spread the virus unknowingly. It is recommended that festival-goers check their vaccination status as soon as possible.

Aside from personal protection, getting an MMR jab reduces the risk of spreading measles to vulnerable individuals, such as children, when returning home.

Professor Stephen Griffin from the University of Leeds stressed the importance of maintaining high vaccine coverage to prevent outbreaks, as measles can lead to severe complications and even death.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a warning about measles at Glastonbury, urging unvaccinated individuals to seek vaccination before attending the festival.

Since the beginning of the year, England has recorded 420 measles cases, with the majority affecting unvaccinated children under 10 years old.

The MMR vaccine, administered in two doses, has been credited with preventing millions of cases and thousands of deaths in the UK since its introduction in 1968.

Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash. In severe cases, it can lead to complications like sepsis, pneumonia, and brain swelling.

Recent deaths in the US due to measles underscore the importance of vaccination to prevent serious consequences.