Fears for 1 in 8 children without MMR jab in city
One in eight children in Birmingham has not had the mmr jab to protect against measles, mumps and rubella.
The number of youngsters being given the precautionary treatment is falling and now stands at 12.4 per cent unvaccinated.
In 2014-15 the vaccination rate was 89 per cent but is now 87.6 per cent – some way below the national average.
The World Health Organisation recommends that 95 per cent of children should be covered.
mmr vaccine is offered routinely to infants in england, as part of the nHS Childhood Immunisation programme from 12 months of age.
a second dose is offered at three years and four months.
Those who miss out will remain susceptible to the diseases, but are still recommended to get the vaccine.
Dr ash Banerjee, Screening and Immunisation Lead at public Health england West midlands, said: “Immunisations are an effective way to prevent serious illnesses.
“It is one of the best things that parents can do to help keep their children safe.
“It can be difficult sometimes to make time to arrange to see your Gp but I would urge all parents to contact their practice if their child receives an invitation.”
across england, the proportion of children getting recommended immunisations is down year-on- year, at 91.9 per cent, also below World Health Organisation advice.
earlier this year, public Health england called for parents to get their children vaccinated.
measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can be unpleasant and sometimes lead to serious complications but is now less common in the UK because of the effective mmr vaccination programme. although usually a mild illness in children, it can be severe in adults.
Those who are unvaccinated, remain susceptible to the disease. two doses of mmr vaccination also provides protection against mumps and rubella.