Tenerife measles outbreak after UK tourist with virus spends day on island

An outbreak of measles has been reported on the popular British destination of Tenerife as at least one person has been hospitalised after a tourist was found to be carrying the virus

A popular holiday destination for Brits has reported an outbreak of a deadly virus on the island as one individual has been hospitalised, according to health officials confirmed today (June 23).

The Ministry of Health in Spain has reported at least four confirmed measles cases in Tenerife as they believe the virus was spread by a child from UK. The child was reportedly holidaying on the island for a few days but it was only confirmed he had the virus on his return back to Britain.

The residents currently battling the virus are reportedly aged between 45 and 55 years old and none have been vaccinated against measles.

The General Directorate of Public Health has now started the protocols for assessment, monitoring and control of contacts to try to control the spread of the disease.

Health officials have also advised locals of the importance of the measles vaccine and the making sure they get both doses.

Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can spread very easily among people who are not fully vaccinated.

While many people recover, the illness can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation and, in rare cases, long-term disability or death.

The outbreak comes just days after UK health officials reported on two measles deaths among hundreds of cases this year.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that one child died from “acute measles” and another child’s death was linked to the “late effects of measles”.

It comes as measles continues to circulate in many parts of the country, the health authority said.

So far this year there have been 736 cases compared with 959 cases for the whole of 2025, new figures show.

Many of the cases have been linked to outbreaks in London and the West Midlands.

The UKHSA said the majority of cases were among unvaccinated children aged 10 and under.

The UKHSA said that in the last month cases have been confirmed in London, the East of England and the West Midlands.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with the families who have so tragically lost their children.

“Measles continues to circulate in many parts of the country and as we have seen it can be very serious and even fatal.

“We urge all parents to ensure their children are up to date with their MMR or MMRV vaccines, giving them the best and safest protection against measles – which can spread very easily.

“Anyone who has missed out on their measles vaccines can catch up through their GP practice whatever their age.

“Getting vaccinated also helps protect babies who are too young to be vaccinated and people unable to have the vaccine due to a health condition.

“Please don’t delay and if you or your child are not up to date, book an appointment today.”

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