The menace of measles

i WAS saddened to read the letters about children damaged by vaccinations, but these heartbreaking cases need to be put into perspective.

in 1980, before measles vaccination became widely available, the disease caused 2.6 million deaths globally. By 2014, vaccination programmes had reduced the number of deaths from measles to 73,000

europe is still not free of this disease, due to migration and a slowing down in the uptake of the vaccine.

Complications occur in 30 per cent of measles cases, from ear infections and pneumonia to blindness and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). MMR vaccination protects against measles, mumps and rubella, but it is possible to have the injections separately. The alleged link between the vaccine and autism has been disproved by independent studies.

A severe reaction to the measles vaccine is rare. Of course, it is a tragedy for every child affected, but it is important to keep in mind the bigger picture.

DIANNE STOKES, Brecon, Powys.