Measles vaccine plea to parents as cases leap

A MEASLES expert from Bristol has called for more parents to ensure their children are vaccinated after cases of the disease almost doubled following two outbreaks.

In England and Wales there were 964 cases in the first six months of this year – compared to 497 during the same period in 2011, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) said.

The number of cases of rubella – or German measles – has also increased. The HPA said 57 cases of the viral infection were reported between January and June – exceeding the previous nine years' annual totals.

Bristol University professor of paediatrics Adam Finn said: "Measles is an entirely preventable disease so it is very sad to see that the numbers of cases are going up. It's a thoroughly unpleasant illness and, from time to time, unpredictably, can turn very serious or even fatal.

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"You can't get too many doses of vaccine, only too few – anything less than two – so if you are in doubt about yourself or your child, find out and, if necessary, get the MMR vaccine which will protect you against mumps and rubella as well. You can be immunised safely and effectively at any age."

Dr Mary Ramsay, head of immunisation at the HPA, said: "It's extremely concerning that measles cases are continuing to rise.

"Measles can be very serious and parents should understand the risks associated with the infection, which in severe cases can result in death.

"It's vital that children receive both doses of the MMR vaccination and ahead of returning to school after the holidays, we are urging parents to ensure their children have received the two doses, which will provide the best protection against the risks associated with measles, mumps and rubella.

"If you are unsure if your child has had two doses of the vaccination, speak to your GP who will have a record of which vaccinations your child has received."