Measles outbreak warning
Monday June 27th, 2011
Britain is facing an outbreak of measles in spite of improvements in vaccination rates, according to new figures.
The
legacy of years of scaremongering about the MMR vaccine has led to the
virus spreading among children who have been denied protection, the Health
Protection Agency said.
Some 496 cases of the disease were reported in the first five months of this year - more than last year's total of just 374.
Across Europe, some 11,000 cases have been reported - with the virus spreading in schools, universities and among travellers.
The HPA said the proportion of infants undergoing vaccination is now at its highest level for 13 years and stands at 90 per cent.
The improvements reflect the discrediting of claims that the MMR vaccine was linked to autism.
The HPA said the new cases of measles mostly affected young people who had not been vaccinated and were under the age of 19.
Dr Mary Ramsay, of the HPA, said: "It's that time of year when children are travelling on school trips and family holidays and we are reminding parents and young adults of the importance of immunisation before they travel.
"We cannot stress enough that measles is serious and in some cases it can be fatal.
"Measles is a highly infectious and potentially dangerous illness which spreads very easily. Whether you stay here in the UK or travel abroad it is crucial that individuals who may be at risk are fully immunised."
Tags: Child Health | Flu & Viruses | Traveller Health | UK News
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