Glastonbury 2025: Attendees warned over measles outbreak
Music fans attending Glastonbury Festival later this month have been warned by medical professionals to be protected against measles.
On June 5th, the government released a report on behalf of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) that showed continued infection outbreaks. The latest figures showed 420 cases of the disease in England since January 1st.
Significantly, the majority of these cases, 66 per cent, involve unvaccinated children under the age of ten rather than adults, which is Glastonbury’s demographic.
The increase in measles in England is reflective of a wider trend across Europe. UKHSA is also warning holidaymakers to ensure they are fully vaccinated before going abroad.
Now, ahead of Glastonbury, Dr Alasdair Wood, consultant in health protection at UKHSA South West, said in an interview with ITV News: “We want festival-goers to enjoy their time at Glastonbury and other festivals this year.”
Wood continued: “Being aware of the current health risks will help those attending enjoy their time as much as possible. If you’re not fully vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella, please contact your GP to see if you can get an appointment before coming to the festival.”
The medical professional then instructed anybody who has been told to isolate “as a result of measles or another infection” to continue to do so, rather than attending events such as Glastonbury and potentially spreading the disease.
Meanwhile, Alison Bell, Acting Director of Public Health for Somerset Council, also implored those attending the festival to take measures to ensure a safe environment, noting, “Keeping yourself safe over the Glastonbury weekend is paramount.”
Bell continued: “Most health risks can be avoided by taking simple steps to help protect yourself, remembering to keep yourself cool and avoid excess alcohol can help keep you safe during periods of hot weather.”
200,000 people are expected to descend upon Worthy Farm for Glastonbury, which takes place between June 27th and June 29th. The festival will be headlined by Neil Young, Olivia Rodrigo and The 1975, with other notable acts including Raye, Charli XCX, Biffy Clyro, Loyle Carner, The Prodigy, Rod Stewart and John Fogerty.
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