URGENT NEWS: Rise in UK measles cases causing concern

A “very concerning” rise in the number of people catching measles in the UK has been reported by health officials.

The virus spreads incredibly easily and a fall in vaccination rates is leaving more children vulnerable to infection.

There were 54 cases of measles in the whole of last year. However, there have already been 49 in the first four months of 2023.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is encouraging parents to ensure their children’s vaccinations are up to date.

The main symptoms of measles are a fever and a rash. But it can cause more serious complications including meningitis, and an infection can be fatal.

That is why the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is part of routine childhood immunisations.

For further information on how to check if your child has measels please follow this link Measles – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

If your child is not upto date with the MMR Vaccination, which should include two MMR dose’s please contact the practice to discuss this further.