Warning over measles outbreaks

THE West Midlands has had more than a quarter of the 120 confirmed cases of measles in outbreaks affecting five areas of England.

Public Health England (PHE) said there were 32 cases in the West Midlands, with the current cases linked to “ongoing large outbreaks” in Europe.

The most recent updates show that, as of January 9, West Yorkshire also had 34 confirmed cases, Cheshire and Liverpool had 29, with 20 in Surrey and seven in Greater Manchester.

The health body has warned that those who recently travelled or were going to travel to Romania, Italy and Germany without receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine are particularly at risk.

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease which typically lasts up to ten days and begins with cold-like symptoms and a measles rash. It can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia.

The MMR vaccine is a combined inoculation which protects against measles, mumps and rubella and is available to all adults and children who have not completed the course.

Dr Mary Ramsay, head of immu- nisation at PHE, said: “This serves as an important reminder for parents to take up the offer of MMR vaccination for their children at one year of age and as a pre-school booster at three years and four months of age.

“Children and young adults who missed out on their MMR vaccine in the past or are unsure if they had two doses should contact their GP practice to catch up.

“We’d also encourage people to ensure they are up to date with their MMR vaccine before travelling to countries with ongoing measles outbreaks.”